Today I did all my totals for last year's spending and compared them to 2009. I spent $4006 more in 2010 than I did in 2009. But since I didn't work from January to May in 2009, that's not surprising.
The biggest jump was in rent. I paid $2841 more in 2010, mostly because I paid it for a full year, and it did go up last August.
I paid $1717 more in gifts. Several reasons -- my son's wedding, and more people in the family, meaning more birthdays, bigger Christmas, etc. Also, I got better gifts because I was feeling more confident financially.
Clothing was $877 more. Mostly because I lost weight but also because I had to buy wedding attire.
My booth cost me $522 more this year than last year. Since I am not anywhere near it, it's not getting any attention and sales are slipping. I never make the rent anymore.
Utilities were $477 more -- once again because it was a full year in comparison to a partial year.
Vet/pet supplies was $386 more -- because I am putting out more food for feral cats, and also because my own cat now has to get medication for arthritis.
Groceries were $356 more; gas $337 more -- I assume just because of rising prices.
Insurance, eating out and personal spending were all in the neighborhood of $200 more. Insurance, because I added renter's insurance; eating out -- guess I ate more! Personal spending -- the haircuts.
Nominal increases in entertainment and fees/services.
On the other hand, I spent much less on medical/health -- $1736 -- since I was insured the whole year.
I spent $985 less on car repair/maintenance. In 2009 I paid out of pocket for an accident I had with a dumpster.
I spent $685 less on furnishings/equipment, being more settled this year.
I spent $603 less on household supplies. I suppose that is because when I moved in 2009, I had a lot of stocking up to do.
I spent $18 less on vacation/travel.
Hoping to do a little better in 2011.
Year End
January 2nd, 2011 at 11:53 pm
January 3rd, 2011 at 12:08 am 1294013292
January 3rd, 2011 at 12:51 am 1294015887
January 3rd, 2011 at 03:09 am 1294024184
January 3rd, 2011 at 03:49 am 1294026548