Impossible to answer, location makes all the difference in terms of cost of living, plus everyone has a different idea of what a comfortable lifestyle is...
It's unfair but they have a problem with volunteer and ed visas if you apply for an elite visa. That said, I do recall some info they sent me (I have an elite visa) that mentioned something along the lines of discussing your situation with them, so may not necessarily be a problem. I assume it largely depends on your history.