Most Amish have no debt. None. No mortgage, no car loan (no car), no credit cards.
How Is This Possible
Buy only what you can pay for. Need a house — save 5-15 years. Need a tractor (some communities) — save 2-3 years. No money — don't buy. Patience instead of interest.
Community is the bank. Need a loan — community lends at 0%. Not a bank — neighbors. A neighbor sees what you spend on. A neighbor knows if you can repay. No anonymity — no irresponsibility.
Low expenses. No electricity ($0/mo). No car ($0/mo). No subscriptions ($0/mo). No fashion ($0). No restaurants ($0). No Bali vacation ($0). Family expenses: $15,000-25,000/year. Average American family: $65,000/year.
Rule
If you can't pay cash — you can't afford it. Credit = the illusion that you can.
Result
Amish man at 30: house without mortgage, land, workshop, zero debt. Average American at 30: $90,000 debt (student + auto + credit cards).