Being middle class often comes with a mix of comfort and compromise — enough financial stability to cover the essentials (and maybe a few extras), but not always enough to splurge without a second thought.
GOBankingRates spoke with Jimmy Fuentes, consultant for California Hard Money Lender. He opened up his budget and gave a peek into what an average week of spending really looks like.
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From groceries and gas to little indulgences that make the days brighter, it’s an honest snapshot of how he gets by on a middle-class budget.
Food and Groceries
Fuentes noted he spends approximately $180 to $200 for groceries each week.
He explained that he and his family prepare the majority of meals at home; however, he still spends on eating out or getting a cup of coffee several times a week, which costs around $40.
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Other Necessities
Then there are other necessities, like internet and gas. Fuentes noted his total expenses on internet and streaming subscriptions are approximately $25 per week on average.
“California does not have cheap gas — that is another $60 to $70 [in] commuting expenditures,” he said.
He added that he maintains a tight category on tech and luxury. “Perhaps, $20 here and there in case of an unexpected request,” he said.
However, he was quick to point out that he does not engage in spending on whimsical expenses.
He Creates a Cushion During Quiet Weeks
It helps to take an opportunity to create a cushion on the quiet weeks, according to Fuentes.
“When we only spend less than usual, the difference of $40 to $60 bucks will be contributed to a savings account, which I never look at unless something malfunctions,” he said.
Fuentes explained that he “parents” his domestic budget in a similar manner that he considers being loan risk ready and narrowing the gaps before things become liabilities.
Being Intentional With Each Dollar
Fuentes’ weekly spending is a familiar balancing act for many middle-class households: covering the essentials, allowing for small comforts and finding ways to tuck a little aside when possible.
His approach shows that being intentional with each dollar — whether it’s for groceries, gas or the occasional coffee — can help keep expenses in check without feeling overly restrictive.
At the end of the day, it’s less about cutting out every indulgence and more about keeping priorities straight so there’s room to save when life is calm and a cushion when it’s not.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m Middle Class: This Is How Much I Spend Every Week
