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I've got offered a job in Troy/Rensellear for a year. I'm not an American, nor have I ever been in America. But the opportunity is too good to pass.
Only problem is the salary they want to give me. It's 1500 dollars a month. Where I come from it sounds like a lot, but is it really?
I also have a wife and two kids which I prefer to take with me, because a year is a lot of time.
Looking at the appartements in the area I'm looking to spend about 600 dollars rent on a small appartement. Is that about right?
But how about the life in NY? Is it expensive? Will I make it with the 1500 dollars or not? And should I consider leaving the wife and kids at home for a year?
Gladly appreciate all the help and many thanks in advance.
wow - can't believe no one responded....I'll give it my best shot. idk what it would cost to rent an apartment now but 25 years ago, an apartment near the RPI (college) was $350 (runned down 3 bdrm but really close to campus) it's gotta be $600 or more now. If you were by yourself, you could probably share an apt in Troy. Not much to do in Troy so you would be happier if your family is with you.
You'll probably need a car (?? + insurance) + gas . Food is not all that cheap - figure at least $100-150 per week for family of 4 (if you are frugal). And no - $1500 is not alot of money...are you going to be able to save anything to send home after living expenses? If it's the work experience that you are looking for....then again, maybe you can negotiate for more/living expenses?
1500 per month is NOT a lot (IMO) for a family of 4, I would think that would be super hard to do. I THINK if you were on your own, it would be a LOT more do-able... as you wouldn't be spending as much (unless, of course, your wife back home does not work and would need to be 100% supported by you). I'm a family of 3 (myself, husband and 3 year old) and I know we wouldn't get by on 1500 a month. Not without some form of help, anyway. I also think $600 for an apartment seems low???? I don't even think that'd be remotely doable with your family because you would need more bedrooms... and you won't get that here for $600. You may find a 1 bedroom or studio for that, not sure.
Good luck making a decision!
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