It’s actually cheaper in some ways if you’re lower-middle-class … higher income taxes, but much lower property tax. Transit for $2.75 per ride is also a nice perk — you can get away with one “beater” car if any. The trick is to live like a recent immigrant family and lower your expectations (I have none).

Also, better social welfare programs. Free pre-K, high limits for CHIP, eligibility for $50/mo insurance up to $100k/yr income for a family of four. Defense contractors and big corporations take welfare, no reason why the little guy or girl shouldn’t as well.

And free college for the kids up to $120k/yr family income is another decent perk.