I think rent cost affects the budget the most. It determines if that $3k would help you live comfortably or just okay. I choose to live in a $300 usd per month. Some choose a $800-$1000. So some cook from Monday to friday while I go out everyday for meals. Some goes drinking on top of the $800 to $1000 rental. I go to every single movie that screens. I think rental plays a very big part.