Banker Shares Weekly Spending Insights from Dublin’s €92K Salary

The financial habits of a banker earning €92,000 annually in Dublin reveal the realities of managing expenses in a thriving city. This week’s “How I Spend My Money” series on The Journal showcases a detailed account of a week in the life of a 40-year-old banking professional, who balances a busy career and family life while navigating the costs associated with living in the Irish capital.

Living with her husband, who earns €150,000 annually, and their daughter, she describes how they initially bought their first home at a favorable market point. After selling that property for a profit, they acquired their current home, which has undergone extensive renovations, impacting their savings. Together, they save approximately €3,000 each month, with a significant portion allocated to travel.

Their financial structure includes a joint account for shared expenses, such as mortgage payments and childcare, which they manage according to their respective incomes. The couple maintains separate accounts for personal expenses and joint savings accounts for long-term goals and holidays.

### Detailed Weekly Expenditure

The following breakdown highlights the spending patterns observed over a week, showcasing both personal and joint expenses.

**Monday**: The week begins with morning routines and work-from-home arrangements. She spends €29.00, primarily on skincare products and groceries.

**Tuesday**: A busier day sees total expenses rise to €404.80, including €331 for car insurance renewal and €70 for a cleaner.

**Wednesday**: The day involves routine medical appointments and preparation for upcoming work in the office. The total expenditure is €82.60.

**Thursday**: A day in the office incurs costs of €101.65, including €62 for vitamins and moisturiser.

**Friday**: The final workday of the week includes a swimming outing with her family, resulting in expenses totaling €245.60.

**Saturday**: Hair appointments and family activities lead to a total spend of €80.00.

**Sunday**: A family day with breakfast and a visit to the playground wraps up the week with no additional expenses incurred, aside from a planned online grocery shop for €223.50 scheduled for the following day.

### Summary of Weekly Spending

The total spending for the week amounts to €863.65, excluding the upcoming grocery shop. The banker reflects on her spending habits, acknowledging a tendency to overspend on coffee, yet expresses no intentions of changing this particular indulgence.

With their savings on an upward trajectory, thoughts of investing for better returns are on the horizon. This account serves as a reminder of the complexities of managing a household budget in a vibrant city, where financial decisions often intertwine with family life and personal enjoyment.

In sharing her experience, she contributes to a broader conversation about financial management, encouraging readers to consider their own spending habits and financial goals. The series aims to foster understanding and empathy, providing insights into various financial situations across different professions and income levels in Ireland.