Meet The News & Observer’s new affordability reporter, Renee Umsted
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Renee Umsted left the service journalism team to become the new affordability reporter.
- Umsted will write about the cost of living in the Triangle and how people can save money.
- Readers are encouraged to contact her with questions, tips and suggestions.
When I was a kid, I used to walk around my parents’ company, threatening to fire anyone who happened to be bugging me at the time.
I can’t wait to be an adult, I thought.
It’s not as fun as I imagined. Sure, I’ve enjoyed the independence and freedom of adulthood. But I’ve also discovered the unpleasant tasks — moving to a new place, paying taxes, comparing insurance plans.
The common denominator there? Spending money.
The Triangle is a relatively affordable place to live, compared to larger metropolitan areas around the country, and even those of similar size. But some residents are feeling pressured or priced out. And costs — of essential expenses like gas, groceries, utilities and property taxes — keep going up.
Maybe you need a hand navigating all of it. I know I do.
That’s why I’m excited to be The News & Observer’s new affordability reporter.
This is a natural transition for me. I’ve spent the past two years on the newspaper’s service journalism team, writing about business openings and closings, local TV news stations, a very special fast-food chain and yes, grocery stores. More specifically, prices at grocery stores.
I compared costs of 40 items across all of our area’s major grocery stores; found out which store has the best hot bar deals; and which ones charge fees to get cash back at the register.
How can I help?
As the affordability reporter, I’ll expand our cost-of-living coverage, seeking to answer what it takes to live, work and play in the Triangle.
I have a lot of ideas about topics and stories to pursue, and as time goes on, you’ll see my name on all kinds of stories. In fact, I’ve already started, with one of the most-discussed issues of the day: gas prices.
But I really want my reporting to be useful and interesting to you, N&O readers.
So I’m asking for your help. Tell me: Which expenses are making your eyes pop? How are you cutting costs? What are the budget issues keeping you up at night? What tips do you have for saving money in the Triangle?
Send me your thoughts, questions, complaints and concerns at rumsted@newsobserver.com. Or fill out the form below.
I can’t wait to hear from you.
