your observations are very similar to mine. I just hit 34 and grinding out SM Lib.
I started @ 30 in SM GY until 32.
Very similar. I maybe had 6 gold between all 5 toons. I have about 50g on my bank alt from a few blues I have sold.
Think I have about 40g now between the 5 toons.
I have been trying to keep professions and skills up during the grind.