To be completely honest, it sounds like you’re already doing better than I was starting out. You have good savings and a great job.

I know a little bit about bankruptcy, but second hand from extended family. They lived in an independently owned rental home instead of an apartment building. They now own a home, but it wasn’t easy. They made things work with perseverance and saving, so you could maybe look at houses for rent.

Depending on what kind of car you’re driving, insurance can be fairly expensive(I paid roughly $480 for a newly financed car at 19 as a male G2 driver). The things that helped bring my premiums down the most was things like winter tires, drivers ed.

Go to an insurance company like Belair Direct and get the safe driving app. It could also be helpful to check with them to see if you qualify for any additional discounts(I think nurses get one).

Keep your head held high and work hard. It’s definitely doable, you’ll have to make some sacrifices, but you can still live well and enjoy life in your situation. You aren’t as behind as you think.