SmartReads

The number of high income households in a community can have a large impact on local economics. High income households – defined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as those earning $200,000 or more per year – generally contribute more dollars to the local and state tax bases, and to surrounding businesses. At the same… read more…

This week, a massive winter storm swept across much of the United States, blanketing regions from Texas to the Northeast with heavy snow, sleet, freezing rain, and ice, often exceeding 12 inches of precipitation. High snowfall can cause a variety of productivity disruptions, from the closing of schools and workplaces to costly interventions to clear… read more…

Remote work can open up a lot of opportunities for employees, families, and employers alike. However, shifts into remote work may also cause short-term challenges to some communities – such as loss or redistribution of businesses and services used by commuters. Between 2023 and 2024, remote work actually declined in large U.S. cities, going from… read more…

While poor health can strain personal finances through escalating medical bills, lost wages, and diminished earning potential, strong health often correlates with greater productivity, higher incomes, and lower overall healthcare costs. On a broader scale, healthier populations benefit from reduced societal burdens – like lower insurance premiums and fewer productivity losses – while enjoying enhanced… read more…