This math is remotely not accurate. 42% tax rate ? Tax rates are progressive. I made a whole lot more last year and my effective Federal + State was 28%. Remember, there are a ton of deductions available. $6k in rent ?? Who pays that ? I have a large house and my mortgage payment is close to 4.5k. And I am building massive equity on my home as well as paying down an expensive asset. Home insurance is $1k for the whole year, while health insurance is roughly $250/month for the whole family. If you play your cards right, you can save upto 200-300k in 3-4 years. Now here's the cherry on top. Add a partner who makes the same amount.