Living on a Budget in California: How I’m Building an Off-Grid Life, One Day at a Time

Living on a Budget in California: How I’m Building an Off-Grid Life, One Day at a Time

I usually don’t talk much about my finances or how I live—especially in what feels like the most expensive state in America. But California is my home, and despite the high cost of living, I still love the opportunities it offers.

That said, loving California doesn’t mean ignoring reality. The rent is high. Gas is expensive. Groceries aren’t getting cheaper. And after moving back home following a bad divorce, I had to make some serious life decisions.

That’s when I started my YouTube channel, Backyard Off-Grid.

Why I Chose an Off-Grid, Minimalist Lifestyle

Backyard Off-Grid isn’t just about survival—it’s about adaptation. I show people how I’m rebuilding my life by living smarter, not harder. One of the first steps I took was opening a high-yield savings account so I could finally put money away and let it grow, instead of watching it disappear into bills.

I also decided to live out of my Jeep and car camp while working on the road. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it made sense. Less rent. More flexibility. More freedom.

Car Camping, Gig Work, and Thinking Long-Term

To make it work, my goal is simple: earn $200 a day doing gig jobs like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash. It’s not glamorous, but it’s doable—and it gives me control over my time.

At the same time, I’m documenting the journey. Since I’m also a landlord, I’ve started reviewing motels and hotels, with a long-term vision of maybe owning a hotel one day. Yes, it sounds expensive. And no, it doesn’t happen overnight.

But big dreams never do.

Budget Travel in California Is Possible

I’ve been doing the research, and even in this economy, affordable options still exist. For example, a motel like Hotel Elevation in South Lake Tahoe at around $70 a night actually makes sense when you’re strategic. That’s cheaper than rent—and it keeps me mobile.

This is all part of acting and thinking like a millionaire on a budget.

From Acting to Content Creation

I pursued acting once, and honestly, that skill still helps me today. Whether it’s adapting to gig work, creating content, or showing up confidently on camera, I use it all on YouTube, TikTok, and social media—for work and for fun.

If I need to become a certain version of myself to get the job done, I can do that.

Hope for Anyone Struggling Right Now

Do I think my YouTube channel could take off and make me a million dollars one day? Maybe. I can dream, right?

What I do know is this: It is still possible to live in America—even in California—if you’re willing to budget, adapt, and stay disciplined.

I’m sharing this not to flex, but to offer hope. If you’re starting over, downsizing, or just trying to survive right now—you’re not alone.

Stay strong.
We’ve got this. 💪

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Yes I wrote this in the Motel don't judge me lol. Thanks Hotel Elevation for accommodating my stay. 3 nights $212.08 plus a $75 deposit. Budget was $300 win win 🙏🏻 Praying for more snow and business for this place. Start a high yield savings account with SoFi. Merry Christmas.