A Cuban woman living in Detroit, Michigan, took to TikTok to share a comprehensive breakdown of her household's income and expenses, aiming to unveil "the truth behind the reality" faced by many immigrants in the United States. The video, posted by user @aniskaruizjimenez, details her household, which includes her husband, her daughter, and herself. All three family members are employed, collectively earning a monthly income of $7,000.
Despite this seemingly substantial income, their fixed and variable expenses consume most of it. As she outlined:
Rent: $1,200
Water: $70 (fixed rate)
Electricity: Between $200 and $250 during summer; higher in winter due to constant heating.
Car loans: $1,989 for three vehicles.
Auto insurance: $768 per month.
Phones and internet: $376 (family plan with the latest devices, smartwatches, and home internet service).
Food: Approximately $800 monthly, excluding hygiene products, gas, and other expenses.
Health insurance: Monthly payments for the entire family.
Support for family in Cuba: Remittances sent to her parents and other relatives.
In addition to these costs, there are expenses for clothing, footwear, and "personal indulgences," which she views as part of the lifestyle she desires in the United States: "I didn’t come to this country to live poorly; I have to live better than I did in Cuba," she stated.
Although she did not provide an exact total of the expenses, she encouraged viewers to do the math and decide if, with such income and obligations, saving money is truly feasible while living in Detroit.
Her account sparked a discussion among TikTok users, with some highlighting the significant cost of maintaining three cars and cutting-edge electronics. Others agreed that expenses in the United States are so high that many families struggle just to meet basic needs.
Understanding the Financial Challenges of Immigrants in the U.S.
How much does the Cuban family earn monthly in Detroit?
The Cuban family earns a combined monthly income of $7,000.
What are the main expenses faced by the family?
Their primary expenses include rent, utilities, car loans, auto insurance, phones and internet, food, health insurance, and remittances to family in Cuba.
Why did the woman's video generate debate on TikTok?
The video sparked debate because it highlighted the high cost of living in the U.S., especially the expenses associated with maintaining three vehicles and modern electronics, and questioned the ability to save money under such financial strain.