Anonymous wrote:

$200 for eating out/entertainment? Oh my. $1200 a year for clothes for a whole family? No charitable giving?

Yes, with three young children, we really didn't go out much. And when we went out to eat as a family, it was to places like California Tortilla or pizza. Clothes for kids are pretty cheap, especially at consignment sales. And of course, they got gifts from grandparents and aunts. I'm not a big clothes shopper and I spent all of my days chasing three kids around or going to the parks. My normal wardrobe was a pair of jeans and a sweater. I maybe bought a few new ones per year, bras and underwear on sale at Kohl's. And my husband's wardrobe consisted of khakis and a button-down or collared shirt. He had a dozens of them - didn't need to go on a buying binge each year. Yes, we did give to charity. The last category was actually misc/savings/giving. I just didn't write it out that way. It consisted of what was left over each month. As I said, this worked for us. It wouldn't work for everyone who has different priorities or needs.

I think 100k is a pretty decent income to live in Reston. You can rent a 1 BR apt for 1600-1800/month, if you max out for 401k, the take home will be around 4500/month. It won't be extravagant but it's comfortable and doable. I would strongly suggest maxing out your 401k, it will tighten the monthly budget but it's worth it. Enjoy being a SAHM!

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We live in N Arlington and make $150K. I stay home with our 2 kids currently. We have plenty of money including for modest travel and savings.

When did you buy your house? That makes ALL the difference. No one making $150K who didn't have significant savings for a downpayment on a $600K + house could make it on $150 and own a nice house.

+1
How the hell are you living comfortably in Arlington on 150K, having enough for travel and savings?

Not the PP, but my husband makes $140 and we own a 2 bedroom condo in Arlington. Paid $290 for it in 2009. We have two children. Our savings are healthy. Each year we vacation for a week at the beach, and every other year we travel to Europe. We're frugal in nearly every part of our lives, but comfortable. Savings and travel are our priorities, not eating out, new clothes, fancy cars, etc.

So what are your savings?