Balancing Lifestyle and Expenses in Austin
Balancing Life and Money in Austin
Austin is so much fun to live in! There's just so much fun stuff to do: eating tacos at food trucks, listening to live music, and swimming in the big Barton Springs Pool. But fun costs money, and sometimes it feels like there's never enough. Don't worry! I am going to share some easy tips to help you save money and still have a great time in Austin.
Step 1: Plan the Money
Plan how your money will be spent. Easy! Just write down what you get in a month, then write down what you spend it on. Probably the costliest thing would be rent. Then you would have to put some money for food, for fun stuff, and things such as gas in your car or bus tickets.
It's kinda like a game! You have to figure out how to make your money last until the end of the month. You can even use apps like YNAB or Mint if you prefer working on your phone or tablet.
Step 2: Save on Rent
Austin can be kind of expensive, especially in the way of rent. Worry not, however! There's always a way to save a buck or two. You can live with roommates and split the cost of rent and bills. That way, you've got more for pizza and concerts!
You can also try looking in areas outside of downtown Austin. South Austin and East Austin are just as awesome, and cheaper.
If you are vacating the apartment, do not forget to make it clean so that you can get the deposit back. Use move out cleaning services that will help you. They make your place look perfect!
Step 3: Eat Yummy Food Without Spending a Ton
Austin is a huge city for food, but eating out every day makes it pretty pricey. Cooking at home is the absolute way to save money. You can go to the farmer's markets, like the Mueller one, and buy fresh fruits and veggies. It is fun to shop there, and you get to pick out what you like.
This is done by attempting to go out to dinner; instead, look for happy hours and food trucks because they have great food at cheaper prices. A couple of my favorite spots are Veracruz All Natural and Chi'Lantro BBQ.
Step 4: Enjoy Yourself for Free
The thing is, cool stuff to do in Austin are endless and definitely won't be expensive. Go hike on Barton Creek Greenbelt or just spend a day at Zilker Park. If you want to get in the pool, Barton Springs Pool is quite fun and does not cost you much.
You can also attend free concerts. There are many places with live music, and sometimes it is free. Just look for local events online or ask your friends!
Step 5: Save Money on Getting Around
Driving everywhere is quite expensive. There is gas, parking, and car repair. If you live close to school or work, try to bike, because it is free and good exercise, too.
If you do not feel like driving, you can make use of the CapMetro buses. They are pretty cheap and easy to use. Another option is to carpool with your friends. You can split the cost of gas, and it is also more environmentally friendly too!
Another way to save time and money is by keeping your home clean and organized. If you’re too busy with school or work, you can always ask Sparkly Maid Austin to help out. They’ll make your house sparkle, so you can focus on more important things!
Step 6: Save Money for Surprises
Sometimes, unexpected things may happen, ranging from breaking down your car or perhaps you have to fix something in the house; thus, you need to save for emergencies.
Start with a small goal, just saving $500, and then when you can do that, you can try to save more money. Once you have this amount of money put aside, you feel much more secure because you are prepared for whatever may come your way!
Step 7: Spend on What You Love Most
There is so much to do in Austin, but you don't need to do it all. Consider what makes you the happiest. You may love concerts, hiking, or eating out. Spend your money on things that make you smile the most and skip the rest.
For example, if you like attending concerts of your favorite musicians, perhaps you shouldn't spend your money buying coffee every day and save it for tickets. It's all about choosing what matters to you!
Step 8: Keep Your Home Nice
Keeping your home clean will save you money in the long run. A clean house is easier to maintain, and it makes you happy when you're at home.
No biggie if you're really busy in school or at work and just can't tidy up. The option to ask for help is always there. Maybe Sparkly Maid Austin can keep your space neat and tidy for you. And you won't have to bother about chores so you can just relax in Austin!
Step 9: Keep Practicing
The more you practice balancing money, the better you get at it. Always check your money plan, save whenever you can, and never forget to have some fun.
When things get crazy, don't forget to hire a maid service to take care of cleaning up the house. One less thing to worry about!
Living in Austin is totally awesome and doesn't have to break the bank. You can really live a good life in this awesome city by just making a plan for money, saving on rent and food, and finding free fun. Just take it one step at a time, and you will become a pro on balancing life and money in no time!
