High Earners: Struggling Behind the Scenes

People making big bucks aren't as comfortable as they seem. A recent study shows that many six-figure earners are just getting by. They feel stressed about money and use tricks to make ends meet. For example, 64% use rewards points for essentials, and 50% use "buy now pay later" for small purchases. These high earners also avoid spending money. Nearly half skip social events to dodge splitting the bill. Others pretend their payment apps aren't working to avoid paying. Some even delay medical care because of the cost. Groceries, housing, and medical bills are their biggest expenses. To make more money, they try side jobs, sell personal items, or skip meals. Some even rent out their homes or consider debt consolidation. The study shows that many top earners feel exhausted. They worry about money even though they make a lot. This financial stress explains why more wealthy shoppers are seen at discount stores. It also shows that affordability is a big concern for many. If high earners start spending less, it could hurt the economy. The top 20% of earners have been driving growth, so their spending matters a lot.