Question 1

What's the 50/30/20 rule?

Accepted Answer

A budgeting framework where 50% of income goes to needs (rent, food, utilities), 30% to wants (entertainment, dining out), and 20% to savings. This is more realistic than older 30% rent rules.

Question 2

How much should I spend on rent?

Accepted Answer

Using the 50/30/20 rule, rent should be part of your 50% needs budget. For most people, rent alone shouldn't exceed 25-30% of gross income, leaving room for food, utilities, and debt payments.

Question 3

Can I afford to live alone on my salary?

Accepted Answer

Enter your monthly income, housing type, city, and lifestyle preferences into the calculator. It will show your affordability score and recommend whether living alone is sustainable for your situation.

Income	£1,960
Needs (housing, food, transport)	£1,360(69%)
Wants (dining, entertainment)	£300(15%)
Savings	£196(10%)
Remaining	£104

Cardiff

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