SPRINGFIELD -- A new Missouri State University poll shows Greene County residents are a bit more optimistic about their financial futures than you might think.  The survey, which polled 591 Greene County residents in September and October, asked people if they think they'll be better off or worse off economically a year from now. The numbers show, the younger you are, the better you feel about the future.

It's one of the first signs that the area sees some light at the end of this dark economic tunnel. A clear majority polled believe they'll be better off or the same financially a year from now.  Only 10 percent think they'll be worse off.

"Healthy percentages believe they'll be better off, which can also be explained by thinking that it can't get any worse than it is now," said Missouri State University polling director Brian Calfano.

The survey also indicates that young people, like Amber Anderson, 24, are the most optimistic of all age groups.

"Economically, I have goals. I'm driven. I just have to work hard to get there," Anderson said.

Anderson just moved back to the area from Fort Hood, Texas, where she and her husband found it difficult to find a job on a large military post.

"You know, you go to school so you can get a good job and then the economy hits and -- yeah," she said.

But as she nears completion of her Associates degree in healthcare administration, Anderson is finding more opportunities here as she fills out applications.  She's also feeling better about her chances.

"I'm very, very confident here," she said.

Her views reflect the numbers in the Missouri State University poll that show 60 percent of those ages 18 to 34 think they'll be better off.  In comparison, just 21 percent of those 55 and older feel the same way.

"That's probably reflective of the generations and experience of being in the workforce, having family responsibilities," said Calfano.

Missouri State also polled how Greene County residents feel about the direction of Missouri. To see those results, head to the KY3 Political Notebook.

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