Some cities are more affordable than others, but if you are an urban woman, you may find it’s still challenging to save money each month. Urban areas are known for their high costs of living because of how many people want to live in them. Luckily, there are a few ways you can save money while enjoying the area you live in.
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Look for a Higher-Paying Position
A higher-paying position can help you increase your income, allowing you to save more if you keep your other expenses the same. Improving yourself professionally will help you find a better-paying position. Getting your degree can help you break into another career path. If you are thinking about getting your degree, you can find scholarships to help cover the cost and avoid the tuition burden of out-of-pocket costs that comes along with higher education.
Create a Budget
It’s a good idea to figure out where you are spending your money and then do some math to figure out how much you can afford to spend. Give yourself some freedom to move around. If you want to go out with your friends several times one month, you might choose to spend nothing on your clothing budget for that month, or if you want to purchase a luxury item, you may decide to save the clothing category of your budget for a few months to afford that item. There are budgeting apps out there, or you could use a pen and paper.
Look for Free Activities
Instead of going to expensive activities, consider spending time walking around. It is a great way to get exercise and get out of your home. It can also help you explore your city better. Going out walking with friends gives you a chance to connect and have deeper conversations.You can also keep a running list of free activities in your area that you’re interested in attending. Consider creating a shared calendar with your friends that everyone can add to. When your calendar has lots of free activities on it, you are less likely to go out for food because you can’t come up with anything else to do. It’s a good idea to eat before you go to the activity and bring snacks along, so you aren’t tempted to buy food out.
Live Below Your Means
Just because you can afford something doesn’t mean you should pay for it. For many, the biggest percentage of their living expenses is rent. You shouldn’t live in a dangerous place where there is lots of crime, but that doesn’t mean you need to pay for a luxury apartment just because it fits your budget. Saving even a hundred dollars a month on rent can help you really pad out your savings account. Consider what is important to you when you are picking out your apartment. Would you rather have a larger place or somewhere that’s close to work? Do you want to live in a neighborhood where there is plenty to do, or where you can relax in your own space?
Blessing Iyamadiken loves the art of storytelling and enjoys creating all types of content from news to entertainment. She is also a feminist and very passionate about Gender Equality. In her spare time, she loves to read or binge on Netflix.
