It is really a pity. If I had just claimed that I spend twice as much as I actually do, people wouldn't be so quick to discard the idea. However, it really is a matter of efficiency. It wouldn't surprise me at all if my neighbors spent 50%, 100%, 200% or even 400% more than me despite living in essentially similar structures and enjoying similar things. As mentioned elsewhere, it's mostly an attitude towards what money is, means, and can do for you.
Thanks for telling the truth. I'm at around $18k/y and it's good to have motivation to do better.
Rent is $6k right there. Ouch. And this is a small town.
Food only gets cheaper the more we do our own, and after becoming vegan. I spent $20 on food in the last week on the fridge is stocked for another week to come. Squash is just cheap, etc. We've gardened before but have nowhere to do it right at our place, though hopefully will soon on the deck.
