<prompt> Human: Just curious.Is the 30 number usually cited for rentmortgage taking into consideration many people are probably spending 5-10k maintaining a car every year things like car payment, insurance, gas, maintenance etc?If so, what about people who live in a downtown area within walking distance of entertainment, work and school? Is it ok to jump that up a bit?Im currently doing my Masters, and so far the only places I can find that have me in walking distance of literally everything meaning I dont need to spend on public transit either soak up around 40-45 of my budget this includes all utilities.If anyone else is living in a major city New York, Toronto, Chicago, etc, how much of your budget actually goes to rent and utilities.Edit: thanks guys, lots of good posts here  <response>: In my opinion the 30 is a mark to reach when its possible for you.When I first moved out from my parents, and bought the apartment Im living in now 10 years ago, I paid 55 of my income towards the mortgage and bank loans. Now that I earn twice as much, and paid down the bank loans and a good portion of the mortgage, its closer to 10.Whats important is that youre realistic about your finances. KNOW that youre paying 50 of your income towards your housing, and make sure that you can live on the remaining.Also, personally Id say that if paying more in housing expenses to avoid a car, then its fine. Cars are as important as houses for people who live outside areas with good public transportation. 