Ann Arbor is one of the most expensive cities in the entire state of Michigan and is often compared to places like Boulder, Colorado. Most lower class individua

Ann Arbor is one of the most expensive cities in the entire state of Michigan and is often compared to places like Boulder, Colorado. Most lower class individuals would live somewhat in its periphery, almost certainly not adjacent to the UofM campus or downtown. I personally pay $440/month with utilities included and I've seen many places become available in the 2 years I've been here at similar prices. Like everywhere it takes some patience and planning to get a good deal- this is par for the course for anyone looking to minimize expenses. Poor planning is expensive. If you choose not to believe this that's fine, but I have zero reason to lie. Even paying a bit more on rent a roommate scenario with split utilities is never going to add up to $675 a month if you're at all savvy and modest in the residence you choose. If your job requires a car and phone but doesn't pay an amount that allows you to afford those things then you should get a different job. $40/month will get you unlimited everything phone wise, or if like me you rarely call then you can do T-Mobiles $30 a month 5gb 4g plan w/ 100 calling minutes. I'm in no way trying to thump my chest here, I'm trying to provide a detailed look at this lifestyle within the overall context of FI's ideas regarding saving and well planned finances. I also apologize if I somehow led you to believe I was saying anyone regardless of circumstance and income could retire at 30. I'm genuinely a little puzzled as to why you're going at me so aggressively, would you mind going into your own lifestyle and why you feel I must be lying to you? EDIT: As far as being mad I wasn't more specific, pay some mind to the demographic that visits this site. I would be surprised if even 1 in 10,000 visitors to this site will never in their life have a job paying more than ~20k/yr (assuming they live in the 1st world). My message was obviously directed at this sites prevailing demographic.