I was jumpseating years ago on a NWA 727 (I told you, it was YEARS ago!). It was a full flight and I had one JS and a 747 Captain had the other. I was a Metro Captain making 20.10/hr. This 74 guy said, "Well, I'm living check-to-check as well". Yes, he was on his 3rd wife, paying 2 sets of alimony and some child support, homes, cottages, a boat...you get the picture. Nice guy, just out of touch with the reality of the regionals back in the late 80's. (Or today for that matter). That said, I never once complained about the pay since it wasn't a surprise. I knew fully well what the deal was before I signed up for it. Now I'm on at a major, 10 years later than I ever planned and starting over. But I'll love every minute of it.