I learned to fly at age 39-40 in the late 1970's. The local FBO had half a dozen rentals 150. 152, 172, etc. and you had to schedule ahead of time if you wanted one. I think they have probably one or two 172's now and I doubt scheduling is a problem. Regarding the overall economy we seem to be doing OK in our area however I noticed the price of gas just went way up again which is a more or less fixed cost that anyone who travels to work and cuts into the loose change anyone might have for other uses (flying for example). One thing which might be slightly off topic but still adds into the picture is the move in some states towards legalizing some drugs yet many businesses require mandatory drug testing. Every business I've been involved with has drug testing. Not a problem for me but there are some who whine about not being able to get a good job because they can't pass the pre employment drug test or lose the job because they can't leave the stuff alone.