I hate debt.

I know plenty that seem fine with it (and take advantage of low interest transfers to keep it from costing them much), but that's just not for me.

I do have one credit card, but it's automatically paid every month.

My one exception is my mortgage, which is well below our means, could be paid for pretty soon, and has turned out to be a fantastic investment.

We're actually thinking about moving soon (one reason we have yet to pay the house off), and may even be able to cash flow building a new home (2,400 sq/ft with a 6 car shop).

We're pretty proud of that given that we're both teachers (not exactly the highest income bracket!).

I think our outlook on debt and spending has gotten us to where we are (cash in the bank, nicely funded retirement to supplement our crappy teacher retirement, and 4 fully owned cars).

 

Teacher's pensions approach or exceed their current salaries. At least those I know.

-- Chuck.

 

Not in my state!

That said, we have a pretty stable pension system. Only big issue has been a steady increase in the required years of service. You certainly don't want to keep older people in the classroom too far past their prime.