That rule of thumb was probably intended for more "middle class" wages though, no? Above a certain level your other basic costs like food, clothing, travel (es

That rule of thumb was probably intended for more "middle class" wages though, no? Above a certain level your other basic costs like food, clothing, travel (especially if you're having kids and can't do much traveling or fine dining) don't have to increase with your income so you can afford to spend a higher percentage of your pay on housing if you want/need to.