Joe: A long time ago I was a Navy LTjg with a wife and new baby on the way living in San Diego. Flying the jet you see to the left. As I recall my pay net pay was around 2000 a month with a house payment of $1032. Also had a car payment of $174.00. By the time my wife and I had paid all the bills we MIGHT have had a 100 bucks to play with for a month. So friday nights out and a simple movie was about as exciting as it got.
Oh and as far as leaving home for a 2-3 day trip... try 6 to 8 months at a time. Wife finished up school. Got orders to a different base in Texas still only minor payraises with uncle sam. Fayettevilee can look like NYC compared to Kingsville, Texas. But it was still fun flying and I new it would lead to bigger and better days.
Those days were at EAL. Not so bigger and better days and the pay along the way I think toped out around 30K. Can't remember. Off to a better airline and a cargo one to boot.
Been flying boxes for almost 20 years. Still in the same house in ATL when I was EAL. Made a few upgrades along the journey. New kitchen, pool when I made captain and finally today I finish out my basement.
As said earlier never live beyond your means. Now everthing I own house, plane, boat, and cars are all paid for free and clear.
Its the journey my friend and the chance to live your dream of flying. Oh and occasionly my wife and I still just enjoy a quiet dinner by the pool listening to the night sounds followed by a good movie......
Make the move, give it a shot, good luck to all.................
