Photo from Flickr user Vaguely Artistic
Hey guys, I’m trying to find a good balance for budgeting in Gainesville. I was thinking about posting my budget here, but I don’t know if there’s anything sketchy about that–whether it would be too revealing, or whatever. I guess my two questions are these: Is it weird for me to post my budget to get people’s feedback? And, for those of you who track/budget their expenses, how much money do you spend on food? I’m separating groceries/restaurants, and my number seems a little ridiculous(ly high)… so I wanted to get people’s input.
(Since I’m asking that question of others, I guess I should at least share my food budget: Groceries $150 Restaurant $100)
Personally, I wouldn’t post my budget, only because I think it’s better to get feedback on it personally and isn’t something I necessarily want to share with everyone. But it’s up to you, I don’t think there are any crazy scams that can be made off it.
$150 is about what I spend on groceries, give or take a little. $100 is a little high in my opinion for eating out…but I don’t really eat out all that often. If you’re looking to cut back a little, I’d cut back on eating out, rather than groceries since groceries are usually healthier and can be spread out longer
. But do what works for you.
Personally I wouldn’t share my whole budget online. Parts are okay though (like what you did)…Maby you should find someone who you admire spiritually AND financially and ask them their opinion.
Umm…it doesn’t bother me if you post your budget and I’d be glad to give you my thoughts either way.
As far as the food budget goes, I generally have only 150$ a month in my budget for both groceries and eating out. I generally don’t eat out very much though (except for this past month, oi.)
it takes a bit more effort but in my trying to cut back this week I planned a few meals for the week where I knew I’d left overs and common ingredients, made a list based on that…shopped the market on wednesday for veggies and got a few things at save a lot and spent under $30 this week. so about 100 a month for me but if your not cooking at least a couple times a week its not as easy.
I wouldn’t feel bad about having a higher restaurant budget than other people if your job or your relationship status
requires it.
Um, actually, if you had enough FAITH you wouldn’t even need a budget. Just spend however much whenever you want. Bling.
I am about the same with groceries, and as for eating out…I personally don’t do it quite as much, but whatever you can afford, great.
Your mom’s comment makes me laugh.
Two pieces of advice:
Assume you have less money than you have.
And
Beans are dang cheap, man. Eat some freakin’ beans.
This is all my experience can offer.
-Greg
I think my grocery budget is about the same. I use to eat out more, but I realized that it was becoming expensive for myself, so I’ve made it a habit to do otherwise. For some people though it’s not an option.
Your mom is hilarious.