5.2 million

[AngryVanMan]

These days, people can make as much as or more than minimum wage by looking sad on the freeway ramp. $1 for every second or third red light change can be $20-25 per hour tax free.

The irony is palpable - standing around doing nothing is a more rational way to maximize the exchange of time for money vs. getting a "productive" job, and you get to spend time outdoors! Maybe when employers start paying better than a freeway ramp we'll see some change.

 

[USExplorer]

Here in Jackson Hole and mountain towns throughout the West, there are jobs piled on top of jobs waiting for workers. Most pay quite well compared to the rest of the nation. Tons of openings in the national park concessions as well. Finding housing is a real PITA in Jackson, but it is provided in the park(s).

What do we have though? Millions of us living in our parents' basements, working as little as possible. Using college as an excuse to shirk responsibilities for four years. The opportunities are there, but the motivation to seize them is not. The companies have to hire hard-working foreigners to make up for the deficit in American workers. I'm speaking as a young person. Personally I am past the summer job state and willing to commit two months of time this fall to learning some real life skills (truck driver training). I have saved up nearly 100% of my net pay since I got here in May, giving me options for the future.

 

[LadyJo]

If they hire older people in Jackson, would be a great summer job. Would you post some info on a new thread so everyone could check it out? Thanks in advance.