Housing
This is the average hourly wage needed to afford a basic apartment in many Texas cities.
What is about $18–$22/hour?
How much does public transportation costs?
A monthly public transportation pass typically costs between $70 to $130 in most U.S. cities.
A single ride in Texas typically costs between $1.50 and $3.00.
For longer distances or commuter routes, fares can be higher. Average cost: $5 to $15 per one-way trip for commuter rail services.
You choose fast food over cooking all week—what happens financially?
you spend more money overall
You feel sick but don’t want to spend a lot of money. What’s the BEST option?
B) Urgent Care
You have $100 left for the week. What do you do?
B or C depending on what you need
You earn $2,000/month. Rent is $900. Is this within the recommended range?
No
This monthly expense includes gas, insurance, and maintenance.
Transportation Costs
This is the cheapest way to buy items like rice, beans, and pasta.
Buy in bulk
This is the monthly amount you pay just to have health insurance.
A Premium
You have extra money after bills—what’s the smartest next step?
Save for emergency funds or invest.
Money paid upfront to cover potential damages in an apartment.
What is a Security Deposit?
Typical monthly car insurance for a young driver (21+) in Texas.
$150-300
How much does it cost to buy eggs?
$3
This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance starts helping.
A deductible
You open your fridge and see “nothing,” but it’s actually full of random ingredients… this is called:
"I don't feel like cooking"
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in cities like Dallas or Fort Worth.
about $1,100–$1,500
How much is gas every month in Texas?
$50-$80
How much does ground beef cost?
4.00-6.00
An emergency room visit can easily cost this (even for minor issues).
$1,000+
The average cost of raising a child per year can be around this amount.
$10,000–$15,000+ per year
A common rule says your rent should not exceed this % of your income.
30%
Buying a used car instead of new helps reduce this type of cost.
Monthly Payments/Debt
Groceries in Texas for one person typically cost about this per month.
$400/ month
A basic doctor’s visit without insurance can cost about this.
$100–$200
Childcare in Texas can sometimes cost as much as this major expense.
Monthly Rent