Being in good financial shape comes down to five things, according to a TikTok post from author and finance expert Dave Ramsey this week. Of those who have debt, the average is $104,775, according to a November 2025 analysis by credit bureau Experian. Ramsey’s list highlights an American consumer base that is struggling to save money, pay off debt and own a home. Mortgage rates have punctuated America’s affordability woes. Mortgage rates have fallen below 6 percent just once since September 2022, according to mortgage backer Freddie Mac.