How do middle-class earners stay ahead when cost of living keeps rising?

It feels like the middle-class squeeze is real these days. Between rising rent/mortgage payments, higher grocery bills, and unexpected expenses popping up left and right, it’s getting harder to save, let alone plan for the future. I make a decent salary (definitely not struggling day-to-day), but every time I feel like I’m getting ahead, something comes up that drains my savings—a medical bill, home repair, or even just the rising cost of utilities.

For example, last year I was able to put aside a good chunk for an emergency fund thanks to a lucky break from a win on Stake of $5,000 but now most of that is gone after a series of car repairs and a higher-than-expected tax bill. I still have my 401(k) contributions going and try to save where I can, but I feel like I’m spinning my wheels.

How are other middle-class folks managing in this economy? Are you adjusting your spending habits, cutting down on lifestyle expenses, or finding creative ways to save? I’d love to hear any tips or strategies people are using to stay afloat and still plan for retirement or major future expenses like buying a house. Are there any hacks to make the paycheck stretch further?