FRAMINGHAM - The U.S. economy has had a tumultuous few years, especially in the wake of the global coronavirus pandemic.

By many measures things are supposedly looking up across the country, though--considering factors like the unemployment rate. The economy is resilient, strong, and growing as a whole–due in part to increased consumer spending.

At the same time, there’s a lot of frustration from Americans fatigued from high prices and costs. Perhaps they aren’t able to afford their utility bills, pay for child care, or buy a home. Then of course: people have to eat, and sticker shock at the grocery store doesn't seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.

The Frame took a visit to Seabra Foods, a grocery store in Framingham, to check in with how they are navigating high prices. The Frame also spoke with Associate Professor of Economics Dr. Laura Lamontagne to help crunch the numbers, and discuss her work at Framingham State University's MERC. MERC conducts their survey twice a year, every October and April. You can check it out for yourself by visiting their website at MERC-FSU.ORG.

As state, national, and global economic challenges weigh heavy on our pocket books, The Frame wanted to take a closer look at the local level, and the obstacles that are unique to MetroWest’s economy. Luis Rosero is the Co-director of FSU’s Merc, and we also sat down with him to learn more.

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