When you step out of college and into the real world, the decisions can feel like a game of Monopoly where you’re trying to avoid landing on Boardwalk with a hotel on it. You’re starting with a salary of about $50K, and now you’re considering the living situation that best fits your financial goals. Renting with roommates at $1,200 versus living solo for $2,200 is a significant difference, and it’s time to break down whether sharing that space is the ultimate power move or if living alone is where your heart (and wallet) truly lies.

Renting with roommates, for starters, means you’re saving a cool $1,000 each month. That’s like having an extra $12,000 in your pocket by the end of the year, which could be a huge boost to your financial future. Think of it as getting a head start in a race while everyone else is still tying their shoelaces. With those savings, you could invest in a retirement account, start a brokerage account, or even throw some cash into a high-yield savings account. All of these are smart ways to make your money work for you, instead of just working for your landlord.

Plus, sharing a space means sharing those pesky bills that always seem to sneak up on you like a stealthy ninja. Utilities, internet, and groceries can add up quickly, but with roommates, those costs become more manageable. It’s like having a built-in team to tackle the monthly budget, making the whole process a little less daunting.

On the flip side, living alone has its own appeal. It’s like being the lead in your own movie—sure, you might miss out on the camaraderie of roommates, but you also get the freedom to decorate your space like a Pinterest board exploded in the best way possible. There’s something to be said for having your own sanctuary where you can unwind after a long day of work, and there’s no one to judge your choice of Netflix binge-watching.

However, let’s not forget that living solo can be a financial weight. Beyond the rent, you’re responsible for all bills, and that can add up quicker than you can say ‘adulting.’ Plus, if you’re living alone, there’s less room for error in your budget. If an unexpected expense pops up—like your car needing repairs or a medical bill—there’s no roommate to help share that burden, which can lead to some serious stress.

Ultimately, the choice between renting with roommates or going solo boils down to your personal priorities and financial goals. If your aim is to save and invest as much as possible, sharing a place might just be the way to go. Think of it like choosing to play co-op mode in a video game—by teaming up, you can reach your goals faster and enjoy the journey together.

However, if you value your privacy and independence, and you feel financially secure enough to handle solo living, then embracing that lifestyle could be worth the extra cost. Just remember, whatever you choose, make sure it aligns with your financial goals and personal happiness. After all, it’s your money and your life—don’t forget to enjoy the ride!