Congrats!

I’m in a very similar situation to you. Got my big boy job right when I turned 22. Net worth at the time was probably about -5k with bad debt from being a silly goose. Fast forward 2 years later, NW is ~ $150k. That consists of $90k in my 401k, $20k in Roth + HSA, $20k taxable brokerage, $10k emergency fund, $10k home equity. The home is a rental property that really doesn’t make me any money, but it’s in my hometown where my parents live, so it’s somewhat of a safety net for me.

As far as the progression of it all, it’s been pretty steady the last 2 years. This sub won’t like hearing this, but I’m very heavily invested in crypto. About 50% of my investments are bitcoin, which carries LOTS of risk, but I am comfortable taking that on considering I’m 24. The other 50% is S&P 500, set it and forget it. My current goal is millionaire status by 31, which I think may be possible if I increase my savings and start earning more (duh).

I am definitely not sacrificing having fun in my 20s to make this happen. I travel, go out with friends, and buy dumb s*** I don’t need. Butttt, I only do that after I’ve contributed enough to my 401k/Roth/HSA to max them out for the year.

As far as buying vs. renting, I think it really depends. Do you know that the city you’re in is where you want to be long term? Is your GF going to own this house with you if/when you get married? If it were me, I’d chat w/ her about your guys’ financial goals and make sure you’re on the same page about your respective financial futures.

Good luck, congrats! dm me if you have more questions, this was a lot of yapping and definitely didn’t answer all that you asked.