After recalculating some of my living expenses, I’ve realized that I can live “comfortably” on exactly $20 a day (or, more accurately, $16 a day) assuming the worst case scenario.
I’m comparing my current rent and factoring in how many hours I’m awake each day to arrive at these figures. For clarity, I don’t own a home, this property is owned by family, I also don't own a vehicle (other than several electric scooters and bikes). The household has multiple vehicles, but I’m not including any of those costs in my personal finances.
Finally, my total monthly expenses—which include rent, junk food (not regular groceries), my cellphone bill, and my AI subscriptions—add up to approximately $500.
With $20 a day, I can live comfortably, though it won’t be exactly rock ’n’ roll. This budget means Maruchan noodles, daily pancakes, and maybe canned beans. Extra amenities are possible, but they would take a long time to afford. I understand this is lowballing typical cost-of-living estimates, but $20 a day is extremely realistic if you’re willing to give up a fast-paced lifestyle and seriously cut back on consumerist habits.
If I were to bump that up to $25 a day, then there would be more legroom for high-quality groceries and even a night out once in a while.
When you really think about it, the largest expenses in your life are rent and auto ownership. When we remove auto ownership and seek alternative forms of transport that isn’t a taxi or ride-sharing apps like Uber, you’ll be able to save tremendously. Now, how do we solve needlessly high living expenses? Perhaps by getting rid of property taxes? Maybe by allowing zoning laws for micro homes with big land? Perhaps by lowering home insurance minimums to bring down home ownership costs for average people?
Let’s be honest: if you own your home, you really shouldn’t have to spend more than $50 a month to keep it legally viable. Right?
Just some thoughts...