A Tech Worker's Simple Life and Big Goals

At 24, a software engineer in San Francisco brings in over $300, 000 a year but chooses to live with almost no material possessions. He doesn’t own a couch, TV, or car, and he says his minimalist lifestyle isn’t about deprivation—it’s a calculated choice. Instead of filling his apartment with furniture or gadgets, he’d rather invest his money in experiences, hobbies, or early retirement. His job at a major tech company pays well, but most of his earnings come from stock bonuses rather than salary. After taxes and retirement contributions, he takes home around $4, 000 a month and saves anywhere from $5, 000 to $20, 000 depending on bonuses and market performance. His plan? Retire in his 30s, though he admits plenty could change by then. His apartment is small but strategically located—just five minutes from a transit station and surrounded by everyday conveniences. He spends $2, 600 on rent, which is cheap for the area, and avoids unnecessary costs by living simply. No car means no insurance, gas, or parking fees. He mostly walks, uses public transit, or relies on his company’s shuttle. His biggest splurge? A $400 bidet, which he calls a quality-of-life upgrade.Food costs stay low too. He spends about $300 a month on groceries and $75 eating out, though his workplace covers most meals. Even socializing happens mostly online—he and friends connect in VR instead of bars or restaurants. One unexpected benefit? Fewer impulsive spends. His money goes toward travel, hobbies, and a small but tight-knit community centered on creative role-playing. He uses travel points to fly business class for free and saves up thousands on flights. A big chunk of his spending also goes toward custom artwork and conventions tied to this niche interest. Even his savings strategy is unconventional—he manually tracks every dollar using custom spreadsheets rather than relying on apps. He’s all in on early investing too. He maxes out retirement accounts and puts extra money into stocks—80% in U. S. markets, 20% internationally. With consistent contributions, he projects hitting over $2 million by 30 and $7 million by 40, though he knows market ups and downs could change everything. Sharing his financial journey publicly seems to motivate him more. He posts updates online, answers questions, and actively seeks feedback from others. It’s not just about saving—it’s about building a life that aligns with his values, not society’s version of success.