Earning Ksh 20,000 when you're living with your parents is one thing. However, earning the same amount when you are an independent adult is quite hectic, especially with the high cost of living in Nairobi.
Budgeting that amounts to cover for rent, bus fare, food, toiletries, hang out with friends, basic medical bills and other needs is not an easy task and can really be frustrating. However, it is possible for someone with financial discipline.
Here are some tips of surviving while you are earning Ksh 20,000 in Nairobi:
1.Opt for neighbourhoods that fit your budget
With this kind of salary, do not pay house rent amount that exceeds half of your salary. Otherwise, you'll always be running broke three days after payday.
Rent a house that does not exceed Ksh 7000 or jointly share a room with a friend.
Also, remember to live within your means by opting for neighbourhoods that fit your class, and whose rent you can afford.
There's no need of struggling to keep up or pleasing your friends in an SQ in Kileleshwa yet you can afford a house in Kayole.
Therefore, if you are a person who earns Ksh 20,000 per month and pays Ksh 15,000 worth of rent, it's time to move.
2. Keep 'slay queen' girlfriends at bay
With this kind of salary, having a 'slay queen' girlfriend who depends on you for salon expenses and pocket money is an extreme sport.
If you want to date, it is advisable to go for a woman who understands you and capable of supplementing your income.
3. Make restaurant meals at home
There's no need of going to pay thousands of shillings in a restaurant for a meal that you can definitely make at home.
If you're craving a particular type of food, just google for its recipe, follow through it to make the particular meal.
This way, you will even have more portions than that served at a restaurant.
4. Opt for free entertainment options
Going out with friends every weekend is costly. Instead, you and your squad can opt to bring the party at yours or one of your friends' house.
Just buy that alcohol at a nearby liquor store or agree with everyone to BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle).
That way, you'll also have saved that cab money that you could have used to and from the club.
If you are not a club person, you can organise a movie night or a game night at your place or a friend's place.
5. Save before you spend
Saving is important for rainy days.
If you earn Ksh 20,000 a month, always ensure you have put aside at least Ksh 3000 every month in your savings account once your salary locks in.
This is the kind of money that will one day upgrade you from that bedsitter in Kayole to a two-bedroom house in South C.
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