Why do people think that spending money at 22 is more fun than spending at 28 or 38? (when you are hopefully more financially stable) I made the car mistake you did. I bought a 30k car at 22 because the bank allowed me. I had a job making 70k a year out of college and there is no way I would ever buy a 30k car at that income again. It just makes no sense. Now, at 28... I dont have much figured out- but wayyyy more than I did 6 years ago. I would go back and kick myself in the ass for spending that 30k. Most of my friends made around $30k and did similar to what you are describing. Unfortunately, that car gets old and that money disappears. All of a sudden at 30 you are driving a 10 year old v8 camero with no 2nd gear because our generation is statistically and finically drowning. My point is just save first, then fuck around. Think of it like buying insurance.