Cost of Living in Arizona etc

by Dennis Sotto
(Makati, Philippines)

Hi there!

I am a 25 year old Pinoy who has an offer to work in Arizona as a waiter in one of Tucsons posh hotels. I was offered $9.30/hr. I was told that this rate is above the minimum wage for my job but sad to say I was informed that I will not be entitled for tips.

I don't know anyone in Arizona or in the US. I don't know how easy or how fast it is to get a part-time job. I am just worried that my salary won't be enough to make a decent living there.

Give me some points to ponder on before making a decision. Thank you.

Answer:
04 March 2008

Hi Dennis, It would be a little difficult to start alone in Arizona. Usually, let's take the Filipino nurses as an example, they come here in batches, share the rent of an apartment and utilities, to save on the cost of living. It's not that expensive really, because Arizona has one of the lowest costs of living in the United States. But for a starter shouldering everything, you can cope with the expenses but may save little or nothing at all.

A second job may help augment the income. Depending on the restrictions of your work permit, if it allows it, it would be a easier to get by and save some cash in your pocket. It won't be very difficult to get a sideline job here too.

You can also ask the hotel employer how they can help workers coming from overseas get a cheap but decent place to live in. They might come up with a share-a-rent plan for those of you coming from other countries as well.

Who knows, somebody reading this post might just comment here and lay out a better plan for you.

So fellow Filipinos in Arizona, please share your opinions for Dennis. Let's help our Kabayan.

Hope this helps you a bit. Take care and good luck. :-)

Maria