I just graduated and got a job with IBM in User Tech. Did an apt hunting trip; I found a 1 bedroom, 735sq ft. in a brand-new gated complex .5 mi from the arena and downtown. Only $1395 a month, and thats a special, next year I'll have to pay $1495 for the same place. South of San Jose, a coworker has 2br2ba for $1200. I have a 20min no-traffic commute south, I can't complain. Although between rent, car, and retirement saving I don't have a helluva lot of disposable income. Guess that new linux box will have to wait. If only I made 10k less I could get the reduced rental rates for low income family's, 20k less and they might let me in a shelter. Otherwise next year I'm moving into my office or heading south!

Thank god for healthy compensation and good benefits, besides the fun job, because if I want a house it will take a 200 to 300% increase insalary or a some fat bonus checks! Back in Seattle I was in a spacious 2br with a roommate, my share was only $400. My rent only went up by ~300%

-Jay