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Is $130k enough in San Jose?
I'm a single software engineer considering a job in San Jose, CA. My base salary would be $130,000. I don't have any kids or debts. I like going out to eat, concerts, and generally exploring the city. Is that enough to live comfortably and still save a decent amount?
2 Answers
12
83d ago
That salary in San Jose requires careful budgeting, especially with your lifestyle. Rent will likely be your biggest expense; expect to pay at least $2500 for a decent one-bedroom apartment. Factor in another $1000-$1500 for food, transportation, and entertainment. After taxes, you might have around $7000-$8000 per month. So, saving will be possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending habits.
6
80d ago
That salary will be tight but doable. Housing is your biggest expense. Look into areas slightly outside San Jose proper, like Campbell or Sunnyvale, for potentially lower rents. Budget carefully for groceries and transportation, and prioritize saving even small amounts each month.