Here is the breakdown of how the money is spent for the Jones's. It includes:
* $35k to $47k on housing
* $18k to $23k on cars
* $8292 on utilities
* $8650 eating out (inc. takeout and lunch at work)
* $41k in savings for retirement & children's college
Housing + utilities alone is ridiculous. If you are spending that much, you should be taxed more. For those that are ahead, they can clearly afford it. For those that are not keeping up, consider it a tax on the stupid.