By Ebony Belser

Who knew the cost of living would be an arm and a leg? I can’t speak for all areas, because I live in the Bay Area.

I’ve lived here all my life so I’m aware of how things used to be, compared to
 how things are now. I can remember back when I was in elementary school in the late 90’s, when rent was pretty much dirt cheap!

At that time, my family was able to lease out a nice two bedroom house.

Now, you’re lucky to lease a house without having to pay three times or more for the cost of rent, while having fewer bedrooms, less square feet, or having to share a house with family (or a complete stranger).

I’ve personally had to deal with all three effects. I am currently leasing a one-bedroom apartment for around $1,100–1,200 a month, including utilities, miscellaneous goods, and food. I’ve been staying in my home for two years and my rent has risen a good $200 plus during that time.

Before I began leasing, I stayed with family members and didn’t have to worry about the cost of rent.

A short time before I moved back in with family, I rented a room out of an elder lady’s leased house in Oakland. At that time I only had to pay $275 towards rent. The price may sound cheap, but that’s because we had yet another roommate right out back who also paid a portion of the rent.

This was about three years ago now, and I have experienced the difference. My only advice now is to take on more than one source of employment, since it seems as if it’s the only way to live.