Rent is very expensive, especially in NYC and nearby. But how many of the same people buy all their meals out, pay for coffee and water while at work? $20 of food and drink a day is about $5000 a year ($20*5*50). Then, go to bars after work and gamble on sports. Most of these same people do not know how to save. I got married young, around 24. I lived home with my parents until then to save money. I brought my lunch to work and keep my expenses low so I could save money and still enjoy going out with friends. My first full time job only paid $16,000/year back in 1982- good for the time. I quit that job to take a job on the floor which I started at $250/week. We all have to make choices.
I understand, we both worked as kids and did not live at home till 25 like them. I know a kid and his girl who live in San Jose. They make $300,000 and $250,000 and spend everything. No dam house, I gave up on telling them to stop going on trips, eating out every day, it’s infuriating! I would have had $1,000,000 in the bank if me and my first wife made $500,000 by year five.