The Yermilov Family’s Monthly Expenses in the U.S.
Valeria Yermilova, originally from Mariupol, Ukraine, has been living in the United States for over five years. She recently shared a detailed look at her family’s monthly spending in Washington State. Their essential costs total $8,950 per month, covering a range of necessities including:
- Rent
- Utilities
- Groceries
- Car maintenance
- Mobile phone service
- Clothing
- Other essentials
Breaking Down the Numbers
Housing in Washington State costs $2,320 per month for rent. Yermilova notes that utility bills fluctuate but average around $320. Home internet runs $51, and two parking spots cost the family $100 monthly.
'Mobile service covers two lines. Mine and my husband’s are inexpensive—$25 each. The iPhone payment is $40. Another line costs $70 because my husband uses four phones for work. Total: $163.'
— Valeria Yermilova
Food for four adults and one child ranges from $2,000 to $2,500. Yermilova explains: 'We mostly eat at home since someone is available to cook now... But we don’t buy cheap products. We usually check the ingredients and choose organic.' Additionally, her husband spends about $300 on takeout at work.
Maintaining three cars costs $650, covering gas and upkeep, while car insurance adds $200. Yermilova points out that fuel expenses can be high because her husband works in delivery. 'He also has a Car Wash subscription—$2,750 monthly,' she adds.
Clothing and cosmetics, including expenses for her parents, vary between $300 and $500 per month. 'I get a manicure every month—$85,' Yermilova notes. Pet supplies, including food and litter, cost $50, while diapers for her son range from $200 to $230.
According to Yermilova, the family spends 'over $1,000 for sure' on Amazon. She mentions recently buying a new stroller for their son at $400. Summing up, she says: 'We also include our parents’ expenses because we pay for them. That’s $300–500 per month.' In total, the Yermilov family’s baseline monthly costs in the U.S. come to $8,950.
This detailed expense report sheds light on the financial realities many immigrants face in the U.S., especially with rising housing and daily costs across states. For those considering relocation or seeking to understand American living expenses, such data offers practical insight. It also underscores the need to track spending across various categories to maintain financial stability in a new environment.
For those interested in how Ukrainian families adapt to life abroad, a recent account from a blogger living in Spain sheds light on her monthly expenses. This comparison highlights the varying costs of living for Ukrainians in different countries, providing insights into budgeting and lifestyle choices. You can explore her detailed breakdown of spending in this informative article.