How do I budget rent in NYC on $600-700 a week?

Frugal Living Forum
1

I’m taking home around $600-700 a week, but between rent, my car payment ($400/month), and tolls ($250-300/month), I’m struggling to make it work. How can I realistically budget for rent in NYC with all these expenses?

2

That only leaves you with about $1700 after rent and car stuff. Have you considered rooming with someone? Also, why do you need to drive in NYC? The public transit is solid.

3

Zane said:
That only leaves you with about $1700 after rent and car stuff. Have you considered rooming with someone? Also, why do you need to drive in NYC? The public transit is solid.

I get it, but my job needs a car. I live in the outer boroughs, and I go to different parts of the city every day, so driving is kind of necessary unless I want a 5-hour commute lol.

4

@Mal
Ohhh, that makes sense. Is it a business expense you can deduct? If they require it, your job should help cover costs.

5

Zane said:
@Mal
Ohhh, that makes sense. Is it a business expense you can deduct? If they require it, your job should help cover costs.

I wish! It’s DSNY (Sanitation), and they don’t really help.

6

DSNY? That’s rough, man. Maybe when tax season comes around, you can deduct mileage. You’re spending a lot on wear and tear, gas, and tolls. A tax pro might help free up some cash.

7

Bailey said:
DSNY? That’s rough, man. Maybe when tax season comes around, you can deduct mileage. You’re spending a lot on wear and tear, gas, and tolls. A tax pro might help free up some cash.

Actually, mileage isn’t deductible for W2 employees anymore. Be careful with that info.

8

@Olin
Good point, I wasn’t sure if all DSNY employees are W2. Anyway, definitely talk to a tax professional, they’ll know best.

9

You should talk to your supervisor or 311 about this. Either they need to help with car costs, or you should find ways to make public transit work, even if it sucks. Staten Island to Harlem is a long haul, though, I get that.

10

@VirtualVanguard
Trust me, Staten Island to Harlem is brutal without a car.

11

Mal said:
@VirtualVanguard
Trust me, Staten Island to Harlem is brutal without a car.

Have you tried mixing it up? Like driving to the ferry and then using public transit? Might save on tolls if that’s an option.

12

Honestly, with $1700 left, you probably need a roommate. Rent and living costs are so high that you’ll be tight if you go solo. Also, are you on track with retirement savings?

13

Kelly said:
Honestly, with $1700 left, you probably need a roommate. Rent and living costs are so high that you’ll be tight if you go solo. Also, are you on track with retirement savings?

I haven’t even thought about retirement yet. It’s tough enough just making ends meet!

14

Jo said:
You’ll probably need to ditch the car or live with multiple roommates if you want to make this work. NYC is one of the few places you can live without a car. Is moving closer to the city an option?

Not really, I’m required to stay in the city for my job.