Banks responded to questions the Kansas City Fed asked about regulatory compliance, staffing needs, competitions and more.

Global factors, such as droughts tightening food supplies and the weak dollar making U.S. goods more affordable overseas, mean prosperity for farmers. Historically, a bust followed times like these.

Merger booms have reduced the number of small banks, causing many to worry. Research shows the banks may end up stronger while maintaining customer relationships.

Efforts include free materials, tools and other resources for teachers, students and families.

Each state has a portfolio with a varying assortment of revenue sources, such as income tax and sales tax, which are affected by the health of the economy. In down times, services get cut or taxes are raised.

Although the United States as a whole feels the pain of this most recent recession, the sting varies from region to region. Variances can be explained by the different industries within these areas, among other factors.

As housing prices climbed, many people complained that homes had become unaffordable to middle-income Americans. Research shows that homeowners are actually better off today than decades ago.

Looking back at the sector's boom-bust nearly two decades ago offers insight into today's situation.

Med student Janel Ward will rack up more than $200,000 in loans by the time she starts her career. But Ward, like many young Americans in debt, isn’t worried––she plans to save later.