Ever wonder how much it would cost to live the way you want? Select one choice from every row by clicking on the radio button and click "How much do I have to earn, after taxes?" to find out what you should be making to afford your dream lifestyle. Hit the "Let me start over!" button to reset all the choices.

Not making enough? Cut down on your expenses or consider going back to school. Check out the table below for sample jobs and what they are worth, and consult the education page to find out what it takes to get a job that would get you that cool car and a place of your own.

  Low End Mid Scale High End
Residence + Living Expenses

One bedroom apartment with one roommate; cook for yourself

One bedroom apartment with no roommates; go out to eat occasionally

Loft with waterfront view; go out to eat frequently
Transportation

Public transportation

Used sedan

New sports car or SUV
Fun

Go to parks and video arcades, eat fast food

Go to movie theaters, eat at midscale restaurants

Go to Bahamas, go to concerts, hire caterers
Stuff

Shop at thrift stores; own a skate board

Shop at department stores; own a PlayStation 2

Shop at designer boutiques, own a state of the art lap top computer

$ /month

Life Style Typical Job Education Level Average Pre-tax Pay Average Post-tax Pay
Low End Sales associate, janitor No High School Diploma $1500/month $1000/month
Low-Mid Scale store manager, technician High School diploma/Associate degree $2100/month $1400/month
Mid Scale teacher, accountant 4 year college degree/Master's degree $4600/month $3000/month
Mid-High Scale Researcher, Engineer Doctoral degree $7250/month $5000/month
High End Doctor, CEO Professional degree $8500/month $5600/month