<prompt> Human: EDIT: I have 0 student loans, live a modest life style, low cost of living in my area Metro Detroit. After comments, I dont NEED to have a 25k car. Recently graduated with my masters degree. I have a new job having me move out to the suburbs to work in the metro area. Ill be needing a new house rent, and a new car because my old one has 230k miles on it and doesnt have much left. Besides, I do client work so I need to keep a good impression. Finances: I make 53kyear. If I pass my CPA, which I will, I will make a 5k bonus in first paycheck. Average salary increases for my position is about 15 per year for the first 3 years. So with bonus that is 58k, 60k, 69k for my first 3 years. I have lived with my parents my entire life so I am a little ignorant on some of the daily life expenses. I am hoping that if I explain my plan to you guys, one of you with more knowledge can either confirm I am ok or make some suggestionsDoes this sound reasonable:Rent: 900-1000UtilitiesCable: 300Car: 25,000 - Looking to buy a new mid-size sedan. Might lease just so I can have something nice and purchase something 3 years later when I have some more stability in my life.Remainder should be enough to go towards gas, insurance, groceries, entertainment, etc.Am I being too conservative or spending too much? Any help I can get would be greatly appreciated, thanks.  <response>: Youre an associate, you dont need an expensive car to impress the client. They couldnt care less what you drive. As long as you dont piss them off, youre golden. Just get something that is reliable with good gas mileage cause the cost of gas adds up, even if youre getting reimbursed. 