Monthly Budget

So after three months, I think I can give an estimated budget on what we are spending monthly. Six months ago I posted an estimate based on the analysis I did at that time. Here are the new calculations.

All of these numbers are in NIS (Israel Sheckel) which is around 3.1 to a dollar. Use three as a basis for the calculations.

Overall, I am estimating that my actual spending is around 1000 NIS higher than budgeted. If I can reduce the variable costs (food, entertainment, other), we might be able to come closer to the budget.

So some findings about actual costs vs estimates.

Rent- The initial assumption was based on moving to Haifa which has signficantly lower prices then Jerusalem. We ended up spending much more then anticipated, but the jury is still out as to whether this is higher then we could have paid here. We went with convenience which probably cost us more money and less space than anticipated. The new place is in the same neighborhood where we were staying which made it easier to move. We wanted a little more room and an outdoor area, but we went a smaller place.

However, the monthly rent included Arnona (property tax- which renters do pay), all utilities including TV and Internet, so the difference is less then the 1900 the sheet shows (still probably around 1000 over budget). We will have a better idea next year when we move.

Health Insurance- Basic health insurance was included for a year when we got here. However, there is still costs for prescriptions (and baby, we take alot) as well as for a supplemental package that provides some extra benefits. 300 more then expected.

Cell Phone- About 225 more then expected as we went with a plan that allows us to call and take US numbers under our old number. Probably give it up after a year because we are mostly getting telemarking calls.

Transportation, School- About the same as anticipated.

Food- Estimated 4500 a month, and I think we are on target to hit that monthly. We went slightly under that in August and I think that this is higher then expected due to staples purchased to fill the cupboard. I discussed food in a earlier posting, and suffice it to say that the higher overall food prices are somewhat offset by the fact that many proteins, like beef are not purchased.

However, I love going out, so what probably makes up for part of the difference. 4500 seems a good number.