Living in Miami is the dream of many, but making it a reality can be a true economic challenge. For those with modest incomes, making ends meet each month requires a lot of organization and sacrifice. This is the case of a young Cuban woman living in Miami Lakes, who shared in detail how she manages her paycheck to cover her daily expenses.
She pays $1,550 in rent for an apartment in Miami Lakes, along with $85 for internet and an electricity bill that ranges from $230 to $280 per month. All of this brings her monthly housing cost to over $1,800. However, since she shares her home with her sister and her brother-in-law, they divide the rent, so her portion comes to $612 a month. "Miami Lakes is a really lovely, quiet, and clean area. I love living here, but I couldn't afford this rent on my own," she comments.
Identified on TikTok as @lacubanitasoñadora, she explained that during the time she worked at a restaurant, she earned $1,400 a month. With rent, car insurance ($215), phone bill ($113), and gas ($100), she had virtually no room left for other expenses like food or any luxuries. "That's why I went around without doing my nails and with messy hair, because $1,400 in Miami is not enough to live on. It's really tough," she said.
Although he acknowledges how complicated it is to maintain a life in this city, he also mentions that he now has a second job at a jewelry store, which has allowed him to improve his situation. "When you see that you're making progress, the fatigue doesn't matter. You feel better. What brings you down is the lack of money; that happens to everyone," he reflected.
His words have sparked conversation on social media, prompting comments both in support and surprise. Some suggested that expenses should be divided equally among the three members of the household, while others pointed out how challenging it is to make ends meet on such a tight salary. “In Miami, salaries are really low. It’s not even enough for basic necessities,” commented one user. Another added, “From the calculations I made, I think by the time you get to the gas bill, you’re left with no money even for food.”
Despite the challenges, their story highlights what it means to live in a city like Miami and how, with sacrifice and good organization, it is possible to get ahead, although not without some short-term personal compromises.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cost of Living in Miami Lakes
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Miami Lakes?
In Miami Lakes, renting an apartment can cost around $1,550 per month. This price can be challenging for individuals with modest incomes, and it often requires sharing expenses with roommates.
How are the monthly expenses of a resident in Miami Lakes distributed?
A resident of Miami Lakes details her monthly expenses at $612 for rent (shared), $85 for internet, and between $230 and $280 for electricity, totaling over $1,800 each month. She also incurs other expenses such as car insurance and gasoline.
Is it possible to live in Miami on a monthly income of $1,400?
Living in Miami on a monthly income of $1,400 is extremely challenging. Basic expenses for housing, transportation, and utilities can take up most of this salary, leaving little room for other essential or personal expenses.
How does the cost of living in Miami compare to other cities in the United States?
The cost of living in Miami is significantly higher compared to smaller cities like Grand Island, Nebraska, where you can find studios for around $550 per month. In contrast, living in Miami often necessitates sharing accommodations to manage the high rental costs.
What solutions are Miami residents seeking to tackle the high cost of living?
To cope with the high cost of living in Miami, many residents choose to share housing and seek additional income or part-time jobs. Good organization and certain personal sacrifices are also common strategies to stay afloat in the city.
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