congratulations on being successful without a college education.  You and your wife are of the few that have been able to pull it off compared to the vast majority of people without a formal education, BTW the average cost a 4-year degree is nowhere near 70k, it is closer to 30k.  I used myself and many others as an example, what I was implying is that some of these non-skilled workers who want $15 are being ridiculous.  What I am implying is that if they want a higher paying job, then they need to increase their skills and their value in the marketplace.  If they don't, then they cant and shouldn't expect a higher salary that that of a highschool student.