I live in Binghamton New York. Our cost of living in this area is the highest in New York State in comparison to wage rates, property taxes, Utilities. For a city of less than 60,000 we also have the highest rate per capita of Level 3 sex offenders-that's because our lovely local Senator cut a deal with the prison system and a scumbag landlord who houses most of them in a run down dilapidated hotel.
All I know is, I told my kids to do themselves a favor and move out of this area and save themselves a lifetime of throwing their hard earned money back to Uncle Sam.