US Average Household Economy

Just read in a magazine that more than half of average American household could not raise US2,000 in a month from loans, credit cards, etc. And an average household has around USD35,000 in their retirement fund, leaving them with only USD100 to spend per month for as long as possible. I thought Malaysia was bad, but looks like the grass is also not greener on the other side. People are struggling with survival and everyday issues like putting food on the table. There is a lot of unemployment but one is lucky in the US as he or she gets to claim unemployment benefits unlike here in Asia. And if you are disabled and cannot work, you get disability benefits from the goverment of USD 2,200.00! In Malaysia, you get RM 350 if you are working and RM 300 if you are not working as an OKU or disabled. One can barely survive with this amount taking into account the high costs of living.