23 Subtle Signs That You’re Not Actually Poor

Money can be a tricky subject, and sometimes it’s hard to know where you stand. While many people worry about their finances, there are often signs that show whether you are actually doing better than you think. These 23 subtle clues suggest you might not be as poor as you feel.

You have some savings

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Even if it’s not a lot, having any money set aside for emergencies or future plans is a good sign. It means you’re able to think beyond just day-to-day expenses and prepare for the future. This could be in a savings account, a piggy bank, or even just a jar at home. Having savings shows you’re not living paycheck to paycheck.

You can afford small treats

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You’re doing okay if you can occasionally buy yourself a coffee, a new book, or a small item you want (not need). These little luxuries, even if they’re rare, show that your basic needs are met and you have a bit extra. It’s a sign that you have some wiggle room in your budget for enjoyment, not just necessities.

You have health insurance

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Having health insurance, whether through work or bought on your own, is a big deal. It means you’re protected from massive medical bills if something goes wrong. This kind of safety net is something many people can’t afford, so if you have it, you’re ahead of the game.

You own a smartphone

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In today’s world, a smartphone is almost a necessity. If you have one, especially if it’s not super old, you’re doing better than you might think. It shows you can afford a device that keeps you connected and helps you manage daily life. Plus, you’re able to pay for a phone plan, which is an ongoing expense many struggle with.

You have a car

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Even if it’s not new or fancy, owning a car can be a sign of financial stability. It means you can afford not just the car itself but also gas, insurance, and maintenance. A car gives you freedom to get around and opens up job opportunities that might be too far to reach otherwise.

You can pay all your bills on time

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If you’re able to pay your rent, utilities, and other bills when they’re due, that’s a great sign. It means you’re managing your money well enough to cover your basic needs without falling behind. This is something many people struggle with, so being able to do it consistently is a positive indicator.

You have some furniture you chose, not just hand-me-downs

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Having furniture that you picked out and bought yourself, even if it’s just a few pieces, shows you have some disposable income. It means you can make choices about your living space beyond just the bare necessities. This could be a comfy chair, a lovely lamp, or even just some decorative items.

You can afford to eat out occasionally

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You’re not in dire straits if you can go to a restaurant now and then, even if it’s just fast food. Eating out is a luxury that many can’t afford regularly. It shows you have some extra money for enjoyment and social activities, not just for groceries and cooking at home.

You have a hobby you can spend money on

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Having a hobby that costs money, whether it’s gardening, playing an instrument, or collecting something, is a good sign. It means you have enough extra cash to pursue interests beyond just surviving. Even if you don’t spend a lot, being able to invest in a hobby shows financial flexibility.

You can buy new clothes when you need them

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If you can replace worn-out clothes or buy new ones for a special occasion, you’re doing okay. It means you’re not stuck wearing things until they fall apart. Maintaining your wardrobe, even if you’re not buying designer brands, is a sign of financial stability.

You have some form of entertainment subscription

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Having Netflix, Spotify, or any other paid entertainment service shows you can afford more than just the basics. It means you have enough extra money to pay for entertainment, which is a luxury many can’t afford. Even if it’s just one service, it’s a sign you’re not living on the bare minimum.

You can afford to give gifts

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If you’re able to buy presents for friends or family on birthdays or holidays, that’s a good sign. It means you have enough extra money to think beyond your own needs. Giving gifts, even small ones, shows you have some financial flexibility and can participate in social customs that involve spending.

You have more than one pair of shoes

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Having multiple pairs of shoes for different occasions or seasons is a subtle sign of financial stability. It means you can afford to have options beyond just one all-purpose pair. This could include work shoes, casual shoes, and maybe even a pair for special events.

You can take time off work when you’re sick

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If you can afford to stay home when you’re not feeling well without worrying about lost wages, you’re in a good position. Many people have to go to work sick because they can’t afford to lose pay. Having sick days or enough savings to take unpaid time off is a sign of financial security.

You have some form of retirement savings

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Even if it’s a small amount, having any money set aside for retirement is a positive sign. It means you’re able to think and plan for the long-term future. This could be a workplace pension plan, a TFSA, or even just a savings account designated for “retirement.” It shows you’re not just focused on day-to-day survival.

You can afford to live alone

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If you’re able to pay for your own place without roommates (unless you choose to have them), that’s a good indicator. Even if it’s small, having your own space means you can afford higher housing costs. It’s a sign of financial independence that many people can’t achieve.

You have some emergency supplies at home

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Having a stocked first-aid kit, some extra food, or other emergency supplies shows forethought and the ability to spend on non-immediate needs. It means you can afford to prepare for potential problems, which is something many people in tight financial situations can’t do.

You can afford regular haircuts

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Being able to get your hair cut or styled regularly is a small but significant sign. It means you can afford to maintain your appearance beyond just the basics. Regular grooming services, even if they’re not fancy, show you have some disposable income.

You have dental insurance or can afford dental care

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Dental care is often seen as a luxury, so if you can afford it, you’re doing well. Whether it’s through insurance or out-of-pocket, being able to take care of your teeth beyond just emergencies is a sign of financial stability. It shows you can invest in your long-term health.

You can afford to donate, even if it’s just a little

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If you’re able to give money to causes you care about, even if it’s just a few dollars here and there, that’s a good sign. It means you have enough to meet your own needs and still help others. Donating shows you have some financial flexibility beyond just taking care of yourself.

You have some form of life insurance

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Having life insurance, even a small policy, is a sign of financial planning and stability. It means you’re able to think about and prepare for the future, including taking care of loved ones if something happens to you. Many people can’t afford this kind of long-term financial protection.

You can afford to keep pets

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If you have pets, it means you can afford their food, vet care, and other needs. Pets are a long-term financial commitment, so being able to care for them shows a level of financial stability. It means you have enough extra money to support more than just yourself.

You have some investments, no matter how small

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Any investments are a good sign even if it’s just a few stocks or a small mutual fund. It means you have money that you can afford to put aside for potential growth. Investing shows you’re thinking about building wealth for the future, not just getting by in the present.

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Diana Tablan

Diana Tablan is a seasoned writer who loves to explore fun lifestyle topics and various human interest stories. During her free time, she enjoys reading, painting, and cooking. Diana’s writings can be found in several popular online magazines in Canada and the US.