Author: Samuel Stebbins, 24/7 Wall Street

What a doctor makes varies by state, so where medical school graduates choose to practice can affect how long it takes to pay off student debt.

While population growth is slowing at an alarming rate nationwide, some cities are bucking the trend, reporting booming growth in recent years.

In parts of the country with higher costs of living, $200,000 is only enough to buy a home the size of a studio apartment – or less.

From the checkout counter to the 1040 form due every April, what Americans end up paying in taxes depends largely on where they live.

Nearly a fifth of all states reported a population decline in the last two years. In many metro areas, it has been a long-term trend.

The government generates revenue from sources like income and employment taxes and redistributes it based on need. And not all states benefit equally.

The violent crime rate is a measure of the number of murders, robberies, rapesand aggravated assaults for every 100,000 people in a given year.

As local industries report growing output, revenue of small businesses increases, which in turn can spur wage and employment growth.

One in every three adults will celebrate Valentine’s Day with a night out this year. Overall, the average cost is $55.44, but it varies by state.

For the first time ever, total Valentine’s Day spending is projected to top $20 billion in the United States –despite falling participation.