<prompt> Human: Hi all,I graduated college in May and just recently started a new job earning 42,000 per year. I live at home for the time being and pay no monthly rent. I have no school debt, my car is paid off, and my main monthly expenses are as follows:Car insurance 100, phone 70, Gas 200, food 300Total: 670I am putting 50 of my take-home in a savings account right now in preparation of me moving out and and putting 20 of my take-home in my 401k and Roth IRA. I will be moving out in the spring not really by choice, parents are moving to an apartment. Looking at some apartments close to where I work NJ, Im seeing most rents for one bedrooms topping 1000. I know I can get a roommate, but I dont really know anyone in the area. Hypothetically, moving closer to work will reduce my gas costs, which saves me a bit of money. Getting to the point, I am concerned about how much of my income is going to be tied up in rent. Do any of you have experience paying around 50 of your take-home income in rent not even counting utilities?What would you guys recommend as an optimal monthly rent cost for someone in my situation? 700? 800? Any recommendations for getting a deal on a decent apartment?Any input is appreciated.  <response>: Do any of you have experience paying around 50 of your take-home income in rent not even counting utilities?Yeah, dont do it. Get a roommate. 