Marty Nemko: Vacation or Staycation

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Vacation or Staycation

6 comments:

Shawn said...: I used Grok to help create this article. It's designed for people that want to live like people with an 8-figure net worth, yet don't have that kind of money, either due to being born to the wrong parents, lacking the genes for intelligence or drive, or for whatever reason can't find their way in the top 1% (the other 99%). Or maybe they are just young and want to live this way now, rather than retire this way when they are old.

This guide shows single adults without children how to live a luxurious beach lifestyle along California’s central to southern coast (Santa Barbara to San Diego) while qualifying for CalFresh (SNAP), Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal, and Section 8 housing. Prioritize health, leisure, and giving back through free advice, all while keeping income low.Income Limits (2025, Single Adult)CalFresh (SNAP): Gross income ≤ $3,160/month ($37,920/year, 200% FPL); net ≤ $1,580/month after deductions.
Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal: ≤ $2,198/month ($26,376/year, 138% FPL).
Section 8: ≤ 50% Area Median Income (e.g., $49,250/year in LA County).
Key Limit: Stay under $2,198/month for all programs.

Housing OptionsVan Camping:Description: Live in a converted minivan at coastal campgrounds (e.g., Carpinteria State Beach).
Costs: Van/conversion: $11,000–$23,000 one-time; camping: $0–$1,950/month; gas/insurance: $150–$350/month.
Why It Fits: Affordable, mobile, beach access.

Shared Housing:Description: Rent a room within 5 miles of the coast (e.g., Long Beach, Santa Barbara).
Costs: $800–$1,500/month (rent) + $50–$100/month (utilities).
Why It Fits: Social, affordable, near beaches.

Section 8:Description: Subsidized rent; pay 30% of adjusted income.
Costs: $650–$950/month (tenant portion + utilities).
Why It Fits: Stable, low-cost housing.

Beachside JobsEarn ≤ $2,198/month (80–110 hours/month at $16–$20/hour):Parking Attendant: $16–$18/hour, 92–108 hours/month. Manage beach parking.
Equipment Rental Associate: $16–$19/hour, 87–108 hours/month. Rent bikes/surfboards.
Retail Associate: $16–$20/hour, 87–108 hours/month. Work in coastal shops.
Cafe Worker: $16–$18/hour + tips, 78–92 hours/month. Serve at beachside eateries.

A Day in the LifeAlex, a 30-year-old in Santa Barbara, earns $2,100/month renting beach equipment:7:00 AM: Meditates by Carpinteria State Beach (van camping, $1,350/month).

8:00 AM: Eats CalFresh-funded breakfast, walks beach.
10:00 AM–3:00 PM: Works 5-hour shift, enjoys ocean views.
3:00 PM: Surfs, blogs free budgeting tips.
6:00 PM: Cooks dinner, shares advice with campers.
8:00 PM: Journals, checks Medi-Cal app for wellness visit.

Why It WorksPublic beaches, CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and affordable housing mimic a millionaire’s lifestyle. Work part-time, stay healthy, and give back via free advice, all while enjoying California’s coast.Tips: Maximize CalFresh deductions, rotate housing options, use Medi-Cal for preventive care, and share advice to enhance well-being. Live like a millionaire without millions.; July 4, 2025 at 7:57 AM
Shawn said...: Longer version:

Living the Millionaire Beach Lifestyle on a Budget: A Contrarian Guide to Thriving in Coastal CaliforniaImagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves, spending your days under the California sun, and living a life of leisure, health, and contribution—all while maintaining eligibility for government assistance programs. This guide outlines how to live like a multimillionaire along California’s central to southern coast, from Santa Barbara to San Diego, without exceeding the income limits for CalFresh (SNAP), Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal, and Section 8 housing. Tailored for single adults without children, this approach prioritizes physical and mental well-being, flexible work, and giving back through free advice, all while embracing the ultimate beach lifestyle.Income Limits for Government Assistance in California (2025)To qualify for government programs while living within 5 miles of California’s central or southern coast, you must stay within specific income thresholds. These limits are based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and Area Median Income (AMI), adjusted for household size and location. For a single adult in 2025, the most restrictive limits apply as follows:CalFresh (SNAP): Gross Income Limit: $3,160/month ($37,920/year, 200% of FPL) for most households. If a household member is disqualified due to program violations, the limit drops to 130% FPL ($2,055/month or $24,660/year).

Net Income Limit: $1,580/month ($18,960/year, 100% of FPL). Net income is calculated after deductions like rent, utilities, and medical expenses (for those 60+ or disabled). California has no asset limit, so savings or vehicles don’t affect eligibility.

Note: For households with elderly (60+) or disabled members, there’s no gross income limit, only a net income limit, and assets are capped at $4,500 (excluding homes and vehicles).; July 4, 2025 at 7:58 AM
Shawn said...: Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal:Income Limit: $2,198/month ($26,376/year, 138% of FPL) for a single adult. This is the strictest statewide limit for non-elderly, non-disabled individuals.

Eligibility Details: Medi-Cal covers doctor visits, hospital care, dental care (Denti-Cal), vision, and mental health services. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship or lawful immigrant status. Income is based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI), which includes wages, tips, and certain other income but allows deductions like student loan interest.

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher:Income Limit: Generally, 50% of Area Median Income (AMI), though priority is often given to those at 30% AMI (extremely low-income). In coastal areas like Los Angeles County, 2025 limits for a single person are approximately:Very Low-Income (50% AMI): $49,250/year ($4,104/month).
Extremely Low-Income (30% AMI): $29,550/year ($2,462/month).

Regional Variations: In wealthier coastal counties like Orange ($57,200 for 50% AMI) or Ventura ($54,350 for 50% AMI), limits are higher due to elevated AMIs. Check HUD’s Income Limit Tool for specific counties.

Eligibility Details: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, pass a criminal background check, and demonstrate responsible tenancy. Participants pay 30% of adjusted income toward rent, with the voucher covering the rest up to Fair Market Rent (FMR).

Key Constraint: For a single adult, Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal’s $2,198/month limit is the most restrictive. To qualify for all programs, keep gross monthly income at or below this threshold, though CalFresh allows up to $3,160/month if deductions lower net income to $1,580/month.Housing Options for the Beach LifestyleLiving near California’s coast can be astronomically expensive, with beachfront homes costing millions. However, strategic housing choices allow you to enjoy the same lifestyle affordably. Here are three options:Van Camping (Legal Beach Camping):Description: Live in a converted minivan or camper van, parking at legal coastal campgrounds or designated areas within 5 miles of the beach. This nomadic lifestyle maximizes beach access and minimizes costs.
Costs:Vehicle Purchase/Conversion: Used minivan (e.g., Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey): $10,000–$20,000. Basic conversion (bed platform, storage, curtains): $1,000–$3,000. Total one-time cost: $11,000–$23,000.
Campground Fees: Coastal state parks (e.g., Carpinteria State Beach, San Elijo State Beach) charge $35–$65/night for tent/van sites. Monthly cost (30 nights): $1,050–$1,950. Some areas allow free street parking or boondocking on public lands, reducing costs to $0–$500/month with rotation.
Other Expenses: Gas ($100–$200/month, depending on driving), insurance ($50–$100/month), maintenance ($50/month). Total monthly: $150–$350 (excluding camping fees).
Total Monthly Cost: $150 (boondocking) to $2,300 (campgrounds). To stay within Medi-Cal limits, prioritize free or low-cost parking and minimize driving.

Legal Considerations: California allows overnight van camping at designated campgrounds and some public lands. Check local ordinances for street parking (e.g., Santa Barbara allows 72-hour parking; San Diego has stricter rules). Register with state parks for extended stays.
Why It Fits: Offers unparalleled beach access, low overhead, and flexibility to move between coastal spots like Santa Monica, Ventura, or La Jolla. Ideal for minimalist, health-focused lifestyles.; July 4, 2025 at 7:59 AM
Shawn said...: Shared Housing with Roommates:Description: Rent a room in a shared apartment or house within 5 miles of the coast in cities like Santa Barbara, Long Beach, or San Diego. Roommates split rent and utilities, keeping costs low.
Costs:Rent: In coastal areas, a room in a shared apartment costs $800–$1,500/month (e.g., $1,000 in Long Beach, $1,200 in Santa Barbara, $1,400 in San Diego’s Pacific Beach).
Utilities: Split utilities (electricity, water, internet) add $50–$100/month per person.
Total Monthly Cost: $850–$1,600. To stay within Medi-Cal limits, aim for cheaper rentals ($800–$1,000) and maximize CalFresh deductions for rent.

Finding Rentals: Use Craigslist, Zillow, or Roommates.com for shared housing in coastal cities. Look for listings in affordable neighborhoods like Long Beach’s Belmont Shore or San Diego’s Ocean Beach.
Why It Fits: Affordable, social, and allows access to beach amenities. Shared housing is common in tourist-heavy coastal areas, offering flexibility and community.

Section 8 Housing:Description: The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program subsidizes rent for low-income individuals, covering the difference between 30% of your adjusted income and the Fair Market Rent (FMR). You can choose apartments or houses within 5 miles of the coast, subject to landlord approval and program availability.
Costs:Tenant Contribution: Pay 30% of adjusted income (gross income minus deductions like medical expenses or childcare). For $2,198/month gross income, expect to pay $600–$800/month after deductions.

FMR Examples (2025): In Los Angeles County, FMR for a one-bedroom is ~$2,200/month; in San Diego, ~$2,300/month; in Ventura, ~$2,100/month. Section 8 covers the portion above your contribution, up to the FMR.

Other Costs: Utilities not covered by the landlord (e.g., $50–$150/month).
Total Monthly Cost: $650–$950 (tenant portion + utilities).

Eligibility and Application: Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) via HUD’s PHA Directory. Provide income proof, ID, and Social Security numbers. Be prepared for waitlists, which can be 1–5 years in high-demand coastal areas.

Why It Fits: Offers stable, affordable housing near the coast, freeing up income for leisure and health. Ideal for long-term beach living.

Jobs That Fit the Beach LifestyleTo maintain eligibility for CalFresh, Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal, and Section 8, work part-time in low-stress, beach-adjacent jobs paying $16–$20/hour. These roles allow time for daydreaming, beach activities, and giving back through free advice (e.g., blogging or mentoring). Aim for 80–110 hours/month to stay under $2,198/month. Here are four options:Beach Parking Lot Attendant:Description: Manage parking at beaches like Santa Monica Pier, Huntington Beach, or Carpinteria State Beach. Direct traffic, collect fees, and ensure compliance. Enjoy ocean views and a relaxed pace.
Wage: $16–$18/hour.
Hours Needed: 92–108 hours/month (23–27 hours/week).
Why It Fits: Minimal training, flexible shifts, and direct beach exposure. Perfect for coastal cities with high parking demand.
Where to Find: City websites (e.g., Santa Barbara, San Diego), JobMonkey, or Indeed.

Beach Equipment Rental Associate:Description: Work at rental shops for bikes, surfboards, or kayaks in Ventura, Santa Barbara, or La Jolla. Handle customer service and equipment maintenance in a laid-back, beachy setting.
Wage: $16–$19/hour.
Hours Needed: 87–108 hours/month (22–27 hours/week).
Why It Fits: Low-skill, part-time roles abound in tourist areas, allowing time for beach walks and reflection.
Where to Find: ZipRecruiter, local shops (e.g., Wheel Fun Rentals).; July 4, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Shawn said...: Retail Associate at Beachside Shops:Description: Work in surf shops or gift stores near Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade or San Diego’s Mission Beach. Perform cashier duties and assist customers in a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
Wage: $16–$20/hour.
Hours Needed: 87–108 hours/month (22–27 hours/week).
Why It Fits: Abundant, flexible jobs with minimal stress, ideal for interacting with beachgoers.
Where to Find: Indeed, Snagajob, or local stores.

Beach Cafe or Food Stand Worker:Description: Serve as a barista or cashier at cafes like Shoreline Beach Cafe in Santa Barbara or food trucks in San Diego’s Seaport Village. Enjoy tips and a social, ocean-side environment.
Wage: $16–$18/hour + $1–$3/hour tips.
Hours Needed: 78–92 hours/month (20–23 hours/week, assuming tips).
Why It Fits: Tips boost income without exceeding limits (counted in MAGI). Coastal cafes offer a fun, relaxed vibe.
Where to Find: JobMonkey, Indeed, or local eateries.

A Day in the Life: The Millionaire Beach LifestyleMeet Alex, a 30-year-old single adult living in Santa Barbara, embracing the millionaire beach lifestyle while qualifying for government assistance. Alex earns $2,100/month as a part-time beach equipment rental associate, staying under Medi-Cal’s $2,198/month limit. Here’s a typical day:7:00 AM – Morning Meditation: Alex wakes up in their converted minivan at Carpinteria State Beach ($45/night campground fee, $1,350/month). They start the day with 20 minutes of meditation by the ocean, prioritizing mental health.
8:00 AM – Beach Walk and Breakfast: Alex walks along the shore, then prepares oatmeal and fruit (bought with CalFresh benefits) using a portable stove. Medi-Cal covers a recent dental checkup, ensuring a healthy smile.
10:00 AM – Work Shift: Alex works a 5-hour shift at a bike rental shop, assisting tourists and enjoying ocean breezes. The $16/hour wage plus $50/month in tips keeps income within limits.
3:00 PM – Beach Time: Post-shift, Alex surfs or reads on the beach, embracing leisure and physical health. They jot down ideas for a free blog offering vanlife and budgeting tips.
6:00 PM – Dinner and Community: Alex cooks a CalFresh-funded meal (e.g., grilled veggies and rice) and shares budgeting advice with a fellow camper, giving back to the community.
8:00 PM – Evening Reflection: Alex journals under the stars, daydreaming about future adventures. They check Medi-Cal’s app for an upcoming wellness visit, ensuring physical health.; July 4, 2025 at 8:01 AM
Shawn said...: Alternative Scenario (Shared Housing): If Alex chooses shared housing ($900/month for a room in Santa Barbara), they’d follow a similar routine but host friends for a beach picnic, using CalFresh to buy ingredients. Section 8 housing ($700/month tenant portion) would offer a stable apartment, freeing up time for yoga classes or volunteering.Why This Works: A Contrarian TakeThis lifestyle rivals that of an 8-figure net worth individual because California’s public beaches, Mediterranean climate, and robust safety nets provide access to luxuries—ocean views, health care, and nutritious food—without the need for wealth. By working part-time in low-stress jobs, you free up time for daydreaming, exercise, and giving back, mimicking the leisure of the ultra-rich. Unlike kings and queens of old, you have modern healthcare (Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal), food security (CalFresh), and affordable housing options, all while living steps from the Pacific.Tips for SuccessMaximize Deductions: Report rent, utilities, and medical expenses to lower net income for CalFresh eligibility.

Stay Flexible: Rotate between van camping, shared housing, or Section 8 based on waitlists and lifestyle preferences.
Give Back: Share advice via blogs, social media, or community meetups to inspire others, enhancing mental well-being.
Health First: Use Medi-Cal for preventive care and Denti-Cal for dental checkups to maintain physical health.

By keeping income below $2,198/month, choosing affordable housing, and working beachside jobs, you can live a life of leisure, health, and contribution along California’s stunning coast—proof that you don’t need millions to live like a millionaire.; July 4, 2025 at 8:01 AM

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