Sharkey, Howes & Javer

This week on Inside the Economy, we cover U.S. consumer income growth, the growing rent-versus-buy debate among younger generations, and the latest in U.S. markets. Median income growth has cooled sharply since early 2022. The key question now: Are we normalizing, losing ground, or entering a new phase? With that in mind, it’s interesting to see how November’s median annual pay varies across states, with Colorado landing on the lower–middle end of the range. Does your state’s median income surprise you? Homeownership has declined in recent years, while rent prices continue to rise. For younger generations, it seems like it’s not just the purchase price giving them pause. What other factors might be shaping their decision to rent or buy? U.S. money-market funds have climbed past $8 trillion as the market keeps expanding. Curious how much foreign private investors have poured into U.S. stocks in recent years? Tune in to learn more!   Key Takeaways: Crude oil reached $59.15 a barrel 30-year mortgage is 6.19% S.