The Real Cost of Living

Most books in the personal finance genre focus on formulaic strategies to enable readers to grow their money or improve their financial situation.  However, this is not your typical personal finance book. 

 
According to the author, Carmen Wong Ulrich, “there is a lot more going on than money when it comes to making decisions about our money and our lives.” She approaches personal finance from a unique perspective.   Ulrich’s academic background is in psychology, not finance.  She was the former host of CNBC’s show, On the Money, and has spent several years working as journalist focusing on personal financial advice.

In each chapter, Ulrich examines the monetary and personal costs and/or benefits associated with major life decisions such as homeownership, pursuing a college education, getting married, raising children, etc.  In The Real Cost of Living, she emphasizes that there are no right answers to these questions. The most important point is to be comfortable and at peace with the decisions that one makes.  The book will encourage readers to devote more time to thoughtful consideration when confronted with major life choices.