Looking back over the past several editions of Home Economics, I realized that it’s been a while since we featured a single woman who doesn’t have a high income.
Today’s writer actually first submitted her entry way back in June 2024, and she reached back out earlier this year when I made a callout for submissions. I’m so glad she did, because I really enjoyed our conversation, and I think her entry is such a good read. (Ken, who copy edits 99% of our newsletters, said she’s a funny writer, and that’s a big compliment from him!) She’s wonderfully open about her complicated feelings on being single and childfree at 39, still living with housemates in a rented duplex, and her dedication to leading a frugal lifestyle, which leaves little wiggle room for the occasional treat. As with many people, she might not be living the adult life she imagined as a child. But that’s also not necessarily a bad thing.
We’re always looking for new editions of Home Economics. You can fill out the form here or reply to this email if you’d prefer that I send you a Google doc with the questions. If we publish your entry, we’ll give you a six-month paid subscription as a thank-you.
Now on to today’s entry! I hope you enjoy!
Age: 39
Location: Vermont
Relationship status: Single
About me: Growing up in the Midwest, I always imagined that by this age I would have a steady career, marriage, and family, and that I’d live in a house (with a garage!) that I owned. My reality is a few light years away from this childhood fantasy. At nearly 40, I am single and childfree (with complicated feelings on both those statuses). I live with two housemates and an anxious pooch in a yardless rental I adore. I have ping-ponged among professional fields (mostly nonprofit/governmental with a sprinkle of service industry and bodywork), never really sinking deeply into one track until recently when I finally decided to go back to grad school for counseling with the dream of opening a private practice one day. Despite wanting sustainable employment I enjoy, much of my life’s meaning is derived from pursuits outside capitalism. I do still struggle at times with where I’m at in life compared to my peers, financially and professionally. In a lot of ways, though, I cherish the freedom and flexibility I have, and I am grateful that my frugal ways allow me to live comfortably in my day to day.
All expenses are monthly unless otherwise noted.
Income:
- Your job title/salary: Social worker, $59,881, plus a yearly bonus of less than one paycheck. This year’s was $1,350 after tax.
- Your monthly take-home pay (paycheck amount after taxes and other deductions): $2,825
- Additional monthly income: Once a year, I do a few weeks of work for a property management company that brings in between $1,000–$2,000. I also earn around ~$200 in interest from my high-yield savings account.
- Total monthly income: $3,263
