Tips for Toughing it Out in the Big City

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Posted by, Amanda Green

City living is where it’s at if you hope to find steady work in this economy. But that doesn’t mean being a city dweller comes cheap. Property tends to be more expensive and so are goods and services. In order to successfully survive urban life without going bankrupt, you need to become savvy at saving money. When it comes to the particulars of residing in a metropolis, the following are five helpful hints at going about things the most economically responsible way possible:

Buy a hardy home: As one urban Texas house flipping couple I met once said: “We buy houses Dallas Texas will never see collapse in a hundred years.” One benefit to city property priced more per square foot is that older structures tend to be built out of stronger materials. Compared to the Spackle-and-particle board assembly of newer suburban homes, buying a sturdy urban domicile is probably a smarter long-term investment, especially when you consider how easy it is to rent out city property.

Stick to public schools: Many city dwelling middle-class families opt to put their kids in private academies out of fear of sending their children to infamously hellish inner city schools. But the drawback to this strategy is of course the cost; public school is free, private school costs you. Instead, strive to get your kids into a magnet school, or vet the nearest public option before completely giving up on sending your kids to school for free.

Own as little personal property as possible: It’s probably not smart to own an expensive boat or motorcycle and keep it within city limits, as big-city personal property taxes tend to be noticeably higher than those in smaller communities. You probably can’t lose the car, but try and own as little costly property as possible if you plan on becoming a city dweller.

Drive as little as possible: Virtually all major American cities have some form of public transportation. Take advantage of it as much as possible, or walk to as many locations as you can. Don’t wear out your car by driving back and forth through a centralized area when cheaper or completely free alternatives exist.

Experience free free time: You won’t be able to find a free golf course anywhere, but just about every American city tends to have a park, playground, and tennis courts within walking distance from every neighborhood. Instead of sitting at home watching PPV, take advantage of the multitude of activities that big cities have to offer. Chances are a decent number of them are free.

City living isn’t cheap, but due to a shrinking job market and a sour overall economy it’s becoming more and more necessary. In order to survive the drastic increase in spending as well as the hustle and bustle itself, stick to city-centric ways to save. It can be the difference between you seeing big city success or suffering through urban strife.

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