Despite earning a hefty HK$90,000 a month, a Hongkonger recently shared his struggles to support his family of four amid the city's high living costs, sparking a debate among online users.
In a recent post on an online forum, titled "Making HK$90,000 a month still struggling to support my family in Hong Kong," the man detailed his challenges in improving his family's living standards after covering essential expenses.
After accounting for household costs, insurance, and child-related expenses, the poster claimed that he is left with only HK$20,000 each month.
Facing a mortgage payment of HK$26,000 for his current 500-square-foot apartment, the poster expressed a wish to move into a bigger house, given that his domestic helper is currently using his study room as a bedroom.
However, the poster highlighted financial challenges owing to the high rent.
In addition to housing challenges, the poster stated that he could not afford a car, citing a potential monthly cost of HK$10,000 and approximately HK$3,000 in parking fees.
"Feeling trapped in life"
"With only $20,000 left each month, I can't even plan for retirement," the poster wrote.
The poster expressed fears that if he retires on just HK$20,000 monthly, saving even HK$5 million over 10 or 20 years would be nearly impossible, especially since he has no investments.
Describing Hong Kong's living expenses as "insanely high," he feels that even with a salary of HK$90,000, he cannot live with dignity and feels trapped in life.
The poster added that his financial strain was further exacerbated by his mother's loan from loan sharks last year.
Regarding why his wife -- a freelancer -- doesn't seek a full-time job to help ease the financial burden, the poster explained that he prefers to support her ambitions and not pressure her to work, emphasizing that his salary also accounts for her well-being.
Struggle with HK$20,000 per month?
The post ignited heated discussions, with some commenters criticizing him for his seemingly endless desires.
Many suggested he should adjust his expectations, while one user questioned why he was complaining with HK$20,000 left each month.
Some online users offered practical advice, encouraging him to reconsider the need for a domestic helper and consider renting out his smaller unit to afford a larger space.
