Not true. I pay more now considering I'm now paying $280 a month in student loans + all the expenses I had in college yet I'm only making $10 an hour. I just haven't bought a new jacket in 6 years, the snowpants I got last year were handy downs from my rich roommate, I spend $40 a week max on groceries and make enough food to feed 5 people and turn it into 5 different dinners. I eat well, I drink good beer, I have nice skis and a decent car. My clothing may not be new, but it is all still fashionable, and I admit to cutting my own hair and renting movies from the library, but there are some things in life where quality is priority.... for me, beer, wine and liquor are on that list. As are skis, shoes, computers, and my free time.