I'm on �14K a year, and I'm renting a flat for �300pcm. We don't have council tax here though (NI). I don't have a gas bill either, all electric, and my last bill for a quarter was �130 (the economy 7 radiators are rubbish and I have to have a separate electric heater. I have a washing machine, but no dishwasher or tumble dryer. I manage with this, although I don't have much spare cash....Never go on holidays, I prefer having cash to go out at week ends.