<prompt> Human: My current apt lease ends soon and I found two prospective places: One place is all new, looks nice, a block away from nightliferestaurantsdowntown, will cost me 13rd my monthly paycheck; the other is an old building but in good shape, atleast a mile away from any grocery storebarnightlife, in the middle of all family houses, will cost me 14th my monthly paycheck. Both places are the same space and amenities wise.A little bit about me: Single, 30 yrs M, max out 401K with employer matching, save 14th current monthly paycheck, invest about half of it in ETFs and the send the rest for supporting family. I still go out a few times a month for fooddrinks but mostly cook at home. All my friends are married so bringing in two incomes and as of this year own their own new houses. At some point in the near future I wish to buy one too but not in the next 2 yrs. So, now I am confused on which apt to rent. Should I go with the cheaper one and add to my savings or get the nicer looking apt so I look at par with my friends and their living conditions? I feel I am saving enough but now I feel I am running the thin line between being frugal and stingy. Somedays I also feel I am getting distant from my friends because I am into cheaper hobbies like gym, cooking at home etc while they are into doing things well settled ppl do like eating at expensive places, making frequent air trips etc. I figured this community is the best chance I have of kicking some sense into me.Thanks in advance!  <response>: I think a nicer apartment for a marginal cost is worth it, if it will improve your overall happiness or attract a worthwhile life partner which will pay way more life dividends. Those are questions only you can answer. Given your ability to save so much already, I do not think micromanaging 5k for a year from an investment perspective will matter in the long run. It seems you do not have expensive taste, so will likely be fine supporting yourself on whatever pathway you take in life. Good luck! 