Introducing The Receipt, a collection that captures how Bon Appétit readers eat and their spending habits. Each entry in this food diary chronicles one anonymous reader’s weekly expenditure on groceries, dining out, coffee outings, and all snacks in between. Amid rising food prices, The Receipt showcases how individuals—from various cities, differing income levels, and diverse lifestyles—are managing their food finances.
This edition of The Receipt features a 36-year-old public relations expert earning $100,000 annually in San Gabriel, CA. Continue reading for her financial breakdown.
Jump to sections
Financial Overview
What are your pronouns? She/her
What is your profession? I am in PR at a major international firm. I was hired during the pandemic and typically work remotely. More opportunity to prepare meals at home!
What is your age? 36
Which city and state do you reside in? San Gabriel, CA, although I am originally from the Philippines
What is your yearly income? $100,000, not including my husband’s income of about $65,000; he is employed in community health for the homeless
What is the amount of one paycheck, after taxes? $2,800
How frequently do you get paid? Twice monthly
What are your typical fixed monthly costs aside from food? (e.g., rent, subscriptions, insurance, utilities)
- Rent: $2,588 (includes water/trash/HOA)
- Electric bill: $150
- Gas bill: $150
- WiFi and cellular: $150
- Car financing: $529
- Gas for car: $250
- Subscriptions: $30
- Credit card payment: $500
- College savings fund: $400
- Children’s sports and extracurricular activities: $200
- Fitness membership: $159
- Total fixed expenses: $5,006
Nutritional Habits
How frequently do you eat out compared to cooking at home in a week? I definitely dine out far more than I did growing up in the Philippines. However, I’m a social homebody—I enjoy spending time at home and inviting friends over for brunch and dinner. Additionally, the cost of dining out can accumulate, and I’m trying not to deplete my entire paycheck on restaurants.
That’s likely the reason our home is the gathering spot. Friends come by, whether they are my child’s neighborhood pals, my husband’s buddies, my girlfriends, or our couple friends. Meals are typically relaxed and potluck-style. (Picture Monica’s apartment on Friends.)
This week, I’m making an effort not to eat out at all. Will I achieve this???
Do you adhere to a specific diet or have dietary limitations? I don’t follow a particular diet, but I am attempting to reduce my BMI/body fat percentage since it has risen steadily over the last three years. It’s challenging to balance healthy eating while living with a child and husband who adore all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ and sushi.
I attempt to focus on healthier proteins and whole foods, avoiding overly processed items and striving for a balanced intake of protein, carbohydrates, and fats daily.
I recently initiated an accountability group with some friends from the gym who share similar health aspirations. We mostly exchange pictures of our meals. It provides me with ideas for meals, but what truly attracts me is observing how others eat and prepare food. I can’t help but be curious!
What other elements affect how you and your family approach meals? My main concern (and I believe many women can relate) is “what am I cooking today?” It’s my primary household task, while my husband handles the laundry and cleaning. It never seems to end.
