The cost of Christmas in the UK has tripled in the last 30 years, with households spending an average of GBP 1,811.70 on Christmas festivities this year.
Adjusted for inflation, the cost of Christmas has risen 290% in 30 years. [ more ]
Is the quality of life in Boston 'good'? Here's what readers said.
Boston voters generally have a positive outlook on the city's quality of life but recognize areas for improvement, such as cost of living and public transportation. [ more ]
Record number of food bank handouts in London last year - up 171% in five years
Record number of emergency food parcels distributed in London by Trussell Trust in the past year, showing a 171% increase compared to five years ago. [ more ]
Sadiq Khan says government 'gaslighting' British public with GDP growth figures
Londoners' experiences don't align with the touted economic growth; gaslighting claim made by Mayor Khan against Government.
The Mayor emphasizes that Londoners are struggling with rising costs despite the reported economic growth, advocating various policies to support them. [ more ]
With fewer Californians and more construction, where are the housing bargains?
California's population decreased, housing stock increased, yet cost of living remained high due to economic factors like expensive mortgages and high demand.
The addition of mostly pricier housing options in California did not lead to affordability improvements, with factors like demand from investors and low unemployment contributing to high housing costs. [ more ]
UK inflation falls less than expected to 3.2% in March
Inflation in the UK eased to 3.2% in March, the lowest level in two-and-a-half years, potentially leading to interest rate cuts in the future. [ more ]
Sadiq Khan announces extension to free holiday meals programme
Mayor Sadiq Khan has announced an extension to his free holiday meals programme in London, aimed at helping families struggling with the cost of living.
The scheme provides ready-made and cook-at-home meals to low-income families through a partnership between the Mayor's Fund for London and The Felix Project charity. [ more ]
No permanent budget for free school meals in London, Sadiq Khan warns
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has announced an extension to free school meals until July 2025, but cannot guarantee them indefinitely due to a lack of funding.
Conservative mayoral candidate Susan Hall has pledged to keep the policy going until the cost of living situation improves. [ more ]