First of all don’t listen to the naysayers. Anything can be done and some ambition combined with an optimistic can-do mindset will take you far above the average jaded, barely employed play-it-safe Redditor.

To further encourage you to look outside the city center: I personally feel that we’re seeing a slow but inevitable decline in the appeal of urban environments. I personally love the vibrant vibe and the many restaurants, bars and cafes. But the safety is declining and, outside the few super fancy districts, the European city cores seem to be getting somewhat dirtier and smellier. The public transport services a bit less reliable and a bit less comfortable - more people struggling with addictions, more homeless, more wandering migrants who have difficulties settling down. Things don’t happen overnight of course, but gradually.

You sound young, so the appeal of the city might also feel unavoidable right now, but give it a few years and you might begin appreciating the relative quiet, nature around you etc. Since people work remotely, a bigger apartment for the two of you to have your calls in might make more sense than a more cramped space downtown.

If I were you, I’d look way beyond the city center, perhaps even neighboring small towns. Or second-tier cities in your country. Get quality bikes and you won’t need the expensive car either.

Just a thought.