In the ACCRA Cost of Living Index, the Council for Community and Economic Research compares the cost of individual consumer products and services across 309 American cities. In the report, the average price of various items can be compared to reflect the disparity of prices and the factors that contribute to the range of costs between cities. From the cost of a T-bone Steak to a monthly phone bill, the price for everyday items can vary dramatically across the country. The differences may have you wishing that you could get such a good deal, or make you grateful that you're not grossly overpaying.

The Reuters/Jefferies CRB Index is a global commodity benchmark tracking 19 commodities that are mostly U.S. traded. The index outperformed the S&P in the first months of the year, currently up 10.24% versus 3.16% in the broader market. The recent commodity rally has been driven by weakness in the dollar and an underlying belief that the economy will improve, ultimately leading to increased demand and higher-priced commodities contracts.