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Single mom is in a New York state of mind

By Amy Dickinson, Tribune Content Agency on

And that magical "well-paying job" that you can secure in New York without a college degree?

According to a detailed analysis compiled by MIT (livingwage.MIT.edu), to make a "living wage" in New York City -- for one adult and one child -- you would have to earn $62,192/year (before taxes).

Starting salary for a police dispatcher in New York City is $36,611.

For you, life in New York City would mean no more free rent (housing in New York is estimated at $20,000/year). Transportation, food, childcare and utilities are also very expensive.

Additionally, if you moved, you would sacrifice your family's financial, emotional and practical support.

In short, your "old-fashioned" parents might be cramping your style, but they are also encouraging you to grow, longer-term.

 

Importantly, if Mr. NYPD was really into you, he would be booking it to your town, versus you always traveling there.

Your local police department might be hiring. A great way to explore professions in law enforcement would be to start closer to home.

Dear Amy: I have a friend who considers me her best friend but, sadly, I can't do the same.

She talks constantly, and I realized on many occasions that she doesn't listen AT ALL. Our husbands are good friends, our kids are close in age and we attend the same church, so we all see each other often.

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