📊 Expense Comparison Tool

Compare Your Spending to National Averages

How Do Your Expenses Stack Up?

Enter your monthly expenses below to see how they compare to national averages from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey. This tool helps you identify areas where you might be overspending or doing well.

Your Annual Pre-Tax Income

This helps calculate expense percentages relative to your income

Enter Your Monthly Expenses

Visual Comparison

National Average

Your Spending

Summary Statistics

Detailed Comparison

💡 Understanding the Data

National averages are based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey data. Keep in mind:

  • Geographic Variation: Costs vary significantly by location. Housing in San Francisco differs from rural Iowa.
  • Life Stage: Expenses change based on age, family size, and career stage.
  • Values Matter: Your priorities may differ from the average. Spending more on what you value is okay if your budget balances.
  • Income Level: Higher earners typically spend more in absolute dollars but less as a percentage of income on necessities.
  • Use as a Guide: These comparisons help identify outliers, but they're not prescriptive. The "right" budget is one that works for your goals.