The 40X rule is a pretty standard guideline for how much rent one can afford (your gross salary divided by 40).

But pragmatically (especially as one advances in their career), does it make sense to spend that much on rent even if you can afford to? I’m in my early 30s making $230K base salary. No partner, kids, or debt…but also no substantial savings. In my shoes, how much would you say is practical to spend on rent?

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40X is the rule that landlords require, not the rule most financial educators say you should spend.

likesmart

No the 40x calculation is a maximum, not a guideline.
Even if you know you don’t want kids or a partner in the future, you never know if something else will come up - a major medical event, parents needing money, a disability preventing you from working, or even a fun trip you want to take. I suggest saving money when you can.

likesmart

😂 Like M1 said - 40x is the max, not the target 🤣

For everyone else asking - the 40x rule is a guideline that most buildings have where they won't rent to you unless your annual income is 40x the monthly rent of the unit you are looking to live in.

likehelpful

And some buildings require 45x!

likehelpful

Quality of life is relevant in some cases, noise, amenities, location ect = rent

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What is the 40X rule?

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Congrats on your career progression so far. Hard to save in NYC, even with that salary.

Me personally, I hated the fact I’m making someone else rich by paying rent.

My focus was more on wealth creation and wealth building, rather than spending on things that won’t generate a return.

To each it’s own!

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Honestly i would try to keep your rent under $4k if it’s just you living there, and maybe even consider roomates if you really want to save. I lived in luxury apartments for a decade in Manhattan and never spent more than like $2k (split with roomates and then significant other).

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Echoing others here in saying, just because you can, doesn't mean you should. Often times when you earn more, you live above your means which keeps you from saving wisely. It all depends on your financial goals and what you're willing to compromise on. Living outside Manhattan in one of the Boroughs in a studio or one bedroom or living with roommates can significantly help with saving. Re-evaluate your lifestyle and cut back on discretionary spending if you want to save more.

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Ya, that's only something you can determine based on your saving goals. I'm in Forest Hills, Queens and pay $2K to live alone in a pre-war building. I could've lived closer in a renovated building but wasn't willing to pay more than that for a smaller apartment.

How is your retirement fund looking?

What's the 40x rule?

30% I think is general guidelines but the least that makes you happy is prob a good start.

I am not sure what you expect here.

You are essentially putting quality of life on one side of the scale and rent $ on the other side. That is an entirely personal decision and no one can answer this except you.

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