This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Raymond Zeng, 24, a Meta software engineer living in the San Francisco Bay area. It has been edited for length and clarity.I've been told by many of my friends that my living situation is very "Spartan." I don't own a car, couch, or even a TV.For me, that lifestyle is intentional. I could afford more furniture if I wanted it, or expand my lifestyle to be more spendy.I work as a software engineer at Meta, earning $306,500 a year, and I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, where I moved about 8 months ago after spending 2 years in Dallas.I think a big part of personal finance is choosing where to spend money and where not to.
Raymond Zeng in the main living room area of his apartment.
Business Insider
Right now, I'd rather prioritize investing, travel, and hobbies over filling my apartment with things I don't use very much or experiences that don't lead me to a fulfilling life.On average, I earn between $7,000 and $8,000 a month, excluding bonuses and stock options, which make up roughly 60% of my total compensation. My take-home pay is generally around $4,000 a month after taxes and retirement contributions. Depending on the month, I'll save anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000.
