N.Y. Today: Living on $208,000 in Harlem
He’s retired. She’s a physical therapist.
New York Today
February 22, 2026

The affordability crisis is having a profound impact on the lives of New Yorkers. Whether the topic is rent, food, child care or the occasional splurge on a matcha latte, the question on everyone’s mind is: How much money do you have, and how do you spend it?

The Wade at home, with the parents sitting side by side on the couch and their two children standing behind them with their arms wrapped around each other.
Charles and Marian Wade splurge on theater and music, but save on groceries by comparison shopping at three nearby supermarkets. Bess Adler for The New York Times

Every Sunday, we’ll introduce you to a different family or individual and walk you through how they’re making it work in one of the most expensive cities on the planet — and why living in New York City feels worth it to them. This week, meet Marian and Charles Wade.

Who are they? Marian Wade, a physical therapist, and her husband Charles Wade, a retired analyst, bring in about $208,000 a year, between pension, Social Security benefits and earned income.

Where do they live? They own an apartment in Harlem and pay about $1,555 for monthly maintenance.

How do they save?

  • Survey Foodtown supermarkets for the best deals.
  • Thrift shop.
  • Use public transportation at the senior rate for $1.50 per ride instead of driving their car.
  • Visit their home upstate instead of going on vacations.

When do they splurge?

  • Nonnegotiable private yoga lessons for $150 a session.
  • Occasional dinners at Pisticci for $21 penne.
  • Weekly private singing lessons for $125 a session.

What do they say?

“We have our roots here, and our families enjoyed life here before us.”

— Marian Wade

To see more details about his budget and more photos, click here.

What to read about money in America

A woman stands in a doorway next to a small child in a costume.
Flexible work setups are allowing more women to keep their jobs as they care for their children. Lily Brooks for The New York Times

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Davaughnia Wilson contributed to New York Today. You can reach the team at nytoday@nytimes.com.

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