<p>Below is an average budget --many will find problems with it, but it will give those out there an idea of family expenses… so much varies with location … I think the OP gets the idea but for others</p>
<p>$110000 per month $9,167<br>
Net of deductions $5,958<br>
EXPENSES
mortgage $1,300 21.82%
taxes $400 6.71%
insurance-house $200 3.36%
electric $200 3.36%
cable $150 2.52%
clothes $100 1.68%
gas/oil $200 3.36%
phones/internet $200 3.36%
medical co-pay $300 5.03%
entertainment/travel $200 3.36%
groceries $600 10.07%
car loan $450 7.55%
gas $200 3.36%
car insurance $150 2.52%
Miscl-haircutss, tolls, etx $150 2.52%</p>
<pre><code> Total expenses $4,800
</code></pre>
<p>Discretionery $1,158 </p>
<p>I might add that this would be a relatively austere lifstyle at home, limited movies and restaurans, no excesses, limited clothing. This might give you perspective.</p>
<p>I cant answer to the investment drop.<br>
However, listen to your parents, and understand what they mean when they say dont worry about how to pay. Frankly, as parents we need to treat the upcomign students as more adult and explain whatever financial reality exists… AND UM-CP is certainly not a bad choice, extremely reputable public university, excellent if you seek the opportunities that are available</p>