Weasley Wealth

[Megan]

No: HPFGUIDX 28730

This morning, sitting in church, I was thinking (that's not a good
sign ;-)) about the Weasley's financial situation.

I understand having seven children (five now at home) can be extremely
expensive--granted.  Not to mention Arthur's salary can't be much
(government employee).  But, compared to Muggle life, what is draining
the Weasley's wealth to the extent that they have essentially no
savings?  Molly uses magic to feed her family, there's no mortage, no
vehicle payments, and it seems to me there are relatively little
outside expenses.  (obviously there is the debate if Hogwarts has
tuition...IMO it doesn't)  Perhaps Arthur's salary is less than we
think?  Somehow this doesn't seem right.  After all, the Ministry
seems to be a very important place to work, and he IS the Head of his
office.  Broomsticks (are these bought by the school--Harry's was,
what about everyone else's?) are expensive, most likely, as are school
books every year, but what are the Weasley's day-to-day expenses? 
Isn't that what usually drains a family into poverty?  It just seems
to me, as compared to Muggle families in our world, that the Weasley's
lack-of wealth is exaggerated compared to the relative expenses (or
lack-of) they pay.

-Megan (hoping she doesn't sound too off-base with this)