As rent prices continue to soar, one man has found a creative solution to the problem. Ryan Gutridge, an IT cloud-solution engineer, has been living on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship for 300 days a year, and he’s found that it’s actually cheaper than renting an apartment.
The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in cities like Los Angeles is a staggering $2,153, while in Florida, where Ryan owns an apartment, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,557. However, Ryan has discovered that living on a cruise ship can be a more affordable option.
Ryan’s journey began in 2021 when he started working remotely from a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. He was drawn to the idea of living at sea and has since spent most of his year on the ship, rather than in his Fort Lauderdale home.
So, how does Ryan afford this luxurious lifestyle? He’s developed a meticulous approach to budgeting, using a spreadsheet to track his expenses. He’s also set a budget for his base fare, which is around $30,000 per year.
Ryan’s commitment to cruise living is evident in his plans for the future. He’s scaling back his cruising budget for next year due to inflation, but he’s determined to sell his apartment and car by 2025. He’s even planning to purchase a scooter, which he’ll store at a friend’s garage.
For those who are curious about emulating Ryan’s lifestyle, he advises trying different cruise brands to find the one that suits you best. Once you’ve found your preferred brand, stick with it to take advantage of the loyalty perks. Ryan’s loyalty to Royal Caribbean has earned him free drinks and internet, making his cruising experience even more affordable.
As Ryan continues to enjoy his life at sea, it’s clear that he’s found a unique solution to the problem of rising rent prices. Whether or not others will follow in his footsteps remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Ryan’s story is an inspiration to those looking for alternative ways to live.
