According to

, 50 percent of wage earners in the U.S. had net compensation less than or equal to a median wage of $26,363.55 in 2010. Translation: Half of all workers in the U.S. in 2010 brought home just $26,363.55 or less in income.

(The median income in 2010 is actually up from the 2009 number of $26,261.29, but it's still below 2008 number of $26,514.38.)

Additionally, according to

, families and individuals spent 9.4 percent of their disposable personal income on food in 2010. That means those making the median income of $26,363.55 spent roughly $2,478.17 on food in 2010, leaving just $23,885.38 for everything else, including rent, utilities, clothing, transportation, health insurance, etc.

These numbers are indicators of a harsh reality for many consumers in this economy: that finding deals when shopping can be a serious step to providing for their families. Using coupons and shopping sales in these instances can be more than just a smarter way to shop — they can be absolutely necessary.

That said, what are the best ways to save money when shopping for essentials? What are the best ways to save on food, clothing, gas, rent, utilities and insurance? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below or email me at

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