Running Costs for Home

xxxxhelpxxxx

Hello,

Not really sure where this should go

Basically, I am moving out of the FMH into rented accommodation. I would like to know how much, roughly, I should budget for running a home. I really don't know what a "normal" household costs. Ours always used to be seem expensive because of all the computers he runs, the expensive Sky package, home insurance is high because of claims, etc. I hope you get the picture.

I don't know how much electric or gas a family of 1 adult, 2 teens and a baby would use for instance. Or how much a food budget should be.

Can anyone point me in the direction of somewhere that breaks it down at all?

Thank you xxxx

Pink.

Hi xxxxhelpxxxx,

Everyone's needs/wants are different so it's hard to advise on what your family will be spending on food shopping but this thread will give you an idea of what others spend:

Grocery Shopping budget thread

For advice on gas, electric etc you should find lots of help on the Utilities boards, although again usage will be specific to your family and the size of your home. Once you've had some input from the Old Stylers I'll move your thread over there.

Good luck in your new home.

Pink

cutestkids

Hi and welcome to the boards,

It is a very difficult question to answer without a bit more information, I don't think there is a one size fits all answer.

Regarding electricity and gas costs depends on many factors, Which company are you with, are you out all day and only home in evenings or are you at home using fuel during the day, size of the house, even the layout and how insulated it is whther there is double glazing etc.

Grocery shopping again is difficult, may families of your size can survive on £200 a week while others cant, are you able to cook from scratch, what kinds of food do you buy just now, is the baby on formula still in nappies etc.

You also need to budget for things like contents insurance, TV licence, phone and broadband, emergency fund for all the little things that crop up, haircuts, dentistry and prescription charges for anyone in the household who is not covered by any benefits you may receive.

ALso things like life insurance if you have children is a must.

Also will you be running a car, if not then will you be using puplic transport.

There really are no set answers, mabye if you can give a little more information then people will be able to give you some idea.:)