We already max out my HSA, put $36,750 into our 403b/401k (to optimize our taxes) so I'm happy there but I'd like to optimize my budget to save for a house. I'm pretty pleased with my budget but there are a few places where I can't seem to get better, like groceries.
So unlikely most case studies, can you help me figure out how to improve those categories? All the numbers are annual.
Groceries $6400- want to improve
Rent $10,200- already below market
car insurance $720- already have decreased
renters insurance $170 - already decreased
gas $3900- this a max amount and any extra goes to savings, being in a rural area this driving distance cannot be changed
car $2400- this is for repairs and saving for a new one (cars are 2001 and a 2013)
utilities $2340- I'd like to cut this but I have not found a way to do so. We already hang dry etc.
phone $455- on ting, includes some savings for next phone
internet $720- this is the town's internet, lower prices are not possible and my husband and I both need internet for our jobs
misc $700- hair cuts, clothes for the adults, any furniture etc.
cat $500- vet appointments, meds, cat liter, food etc.
life/dis $452.8
1st daughter expenses $636- clothes, shoes etc
Gifts/xmas $640
hockey $350- replacement supplies
travel $1000- most of this is being saved for a large trip in 2020 but two small trips are planned this year
fun $1171
0% auto loan $2700- will be done in 16 months
2nd child $1290- includes clothes, shoes, diapers, wipes etc.
Daycare $9100- lowest we can find
school $5000- we are not willing to be flexible with this.
Summer Care $1800
Wrap Around Care $3300
electronics $300
medical $1000
house savings $1350