All things considered, we did not suffer as much as other states have last year.  Take for example Florida who is rests after a three month gain as conumer confidence falls.  Gasprice, the housing market and the mix message of the future of our economy has consumers wondering about the next five years.  Even expectations aboutpersonal finances a year from now fell.

Our country's economy is not bad, really neither is it great.  While the new housing market is not doing good and still remains one of the most important factor to watch out for, the stock markethas picked up the slack.  Another trickling effect a cooling market has on local economy is employment.  The less new houses are built, the less employment.

The numbers from this study I found on PhysOrg showed more senior citizens and low-income households were worried.  It found that overall, consumerconfidence was two points lower than a year ago.

Higher gasoline prices in 2006 have effected consumer confidence.  Gas is one of the bigest culprits but watch out for better prices as we approach election times.

Click here for the original PhysOrg article.