I live in a small city in the middle of the country (Springfield Missouri) so it's cheaper to live here. I've also always had roommates (miserable, but not as bad as working). I only made about $11/hr for 7 years (never had a 401k but I should've. Didnt get unemployment or any other gov't $. Haven't had an income since besides the roomies). I'm very frugal and I paid off my house when I was 29 by paying a lot extra every month (it was $75,000. I've never bought house or health insurance but I probably should). I buy food by price per ounce – the price labels at stores usually show in the top-left corner how much it costs per ounce (i try to not go much over 12 cents per ounce). I only buy things like clothes & electronics if I find them at least 50% off. I still have enough money in the bank to last a few more years before I have to get another job. Luckily I hate traveling so my only entertainment $ is a movie theater membership & $15/month for streaming. I'm not bragging – again, Im miserable, but maybe this will help someone be a little less miserable