SSOL Categories

The Societal Standard of Living (SSOL) is based on a set of essential cost categories that together define the minimum wage required for a full-time worker to afford a dignified standard of living. Below, each category is detailed with the components it covers.

  1. Air

    Access to clean air is a fundamental necessity for survival. While air itself is not directly monetized, pollution, air quality control, and environmental regulations impact health and living conditions. If businesses or industries create pollution that degrades air quality, the cost of mitigating those effects—such as air filtration systems or medical care—becomes an external burden on individuals.

  2. Water

    Clean water is essential for drinking, sanitation, and hygiene. Unlike air, water is already a monetized resource, with utility companies and bottled water providers profiting from its supply. This category accounts for both the cost of municipal water services and, in cases where water quality is inadequate, additional filtration or bottled water expenses.

  3. Food

    This category ensures individuals have access to a nutritious and balanced diet. It includes:

    • Groceries: The cost of purchasing food items for home consumption.
    • Dining Expenses: Occasional eating out, recognizing that not all meals can always be prepared at home.
    • Price Variability: SSOL accounts for regional cost differences and price fluctuations, ensuring affordability in areas with limited access to low-cost food options.

    Additionally, food deserts—areas with limited access to fresh and affordable food—are considered, as these drive up costs by forcing residents to rely on expensive processed foods or travel farther to access healthy options.

  4. Housing

    Or a better term would be protection for the elements

    This category covers all costs associated with securing a safe and adequate living space. It includes:

    • Dwelling: The cost of renting or owning a home (house, apartment, trailer, etc.).
    • Furnishings: Essential items such as a bed, dresser, couch, table, and other necessary furniture.
    • Utilities: Monthly expenses for electricity, water, heating, and other basic services.
    • Insurance: Home or rental insurance to protect against unforeseen damages or losses.

    And clothing covers the costs for everyday attire and, when necessary, work-specific clothing. This ensures that individuals are appropriately dressed for both personal and professional environments.

  5. Healthcare

    The healthcare category ensures access to necessary medical services, including:

    • Health Insurance: The cost of coverage that minimizes out-of-pocket expenses.
    • Medical Expenses: Co-pays, prescriptions, and necessary medical treatments.
    • Preventive Care: Routine check-ups, dental care, vision care, and mental health services.
    • Emergency Services: Unexpected health emergencies and the costs associated with urgent care or hospital visits.

    The SSOL framework encourages systemic reforms to ensure healthcare remains accessible and affordable rather than being subject to unchecked pricing.

  6. Education

    Learning and personal growth are essential for both individual success and economic development. Today, educational resources are widely available through public libraries, online courses, and open-source materials. However, the main challenge is not access to knowledge but the affordability of recognized accreditation.

  7. Transportation

    This category addresses the costs associated with commuting and mobility. It includes:

    • Vehicle Costs: For those who require a car, this covers purchase, maintenance, and insurance expenses.
    • Fuel: The cost of fuel for personal vehicles.
    • Public Transportation: Expenses for buses, subways, trains, or other mass transit options.
    • Alternative Options: In some regions, transportation may also include bicycles, motorcycles, or even non-traditional methods such as horse-drawn transport in rural areas.

    Transportation mwthods costs could vary widely depending on location, with urban areas often offering more transit options, while suburban and rural regions may necessitate personal vehicles.

  8. Communication

    This category ensures that individuals have the necessary tools to stay connected. It includes

    • Phone: Mobile phone plans that provide reliable communication.
    • Internet: Broadband or other internet services necessary for work, education, and personal needs.
    • Devices: A basic smartphone or computer, ensuring access to online resources, job applications, and remote work opportunities.

  9. Government Requirements

    This category includes all costs mandated by government regulations. It covers:

    • Taxes: Federal, state, and local income taxes as well as contributions to Social Security, Medicare, and unemployment insurance.
    • Licenses: Fees for any required professional or personal licenses.
    • Reporting: Expenses related to filing items with the goverment, like tax returns and, if necessary, professional tax services.

Together, these categories form the basis for calculating a wage that enables full-time workers to cover all essential living costs in their respective areas. As the cost of living evolves, the SSOL framework adapts, ensuring it remains relevant and effective.