Ever wonder what it feels like to live like the rich and famous? You’re not alone. The world’s wealthiest individuals spend on luxurious cars, massive homes, and exotic vacations that most of us can only dream about.
But what if I told you that you don’t need millions to feel like you’re living the high life? With a little creativity and a few smart choices, you can enjoy a life of luxury on your own terms.
1. Luxury Cars and Private Jets → Ride in Style with Cheaper Alternatives
Rich people spend enormous amounts on luxury cars and private jets. In fact, the average price of a private jet can be anywhere from $3 million to $90 million depending on the size and model.
But you don’t need to own a supercar or fly private to experience that lavish feeling of travel in style.
Consider leasing a luxury car for a weekend trip or special occasion, or use premium ride-sharing services like Uber Black for an elevated experience.
For more frequent luxury travel, a credit card with top-tier rewards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred can help you earn points toward luxury experiences.
Sign up for the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and earn points for travel, dining, and more. With the right card, you can redeem your rewards for first-class experiences without the millionaire price tag.
2. Extravagant Real Estate → Transform Your Home into a Mini Mansion
The wealthy often invest in multi-million-dollar homes in exclusive neighborhoods. For example, the median price of a luxury home in Beverly Hills is over $3.6 million. But even if you’re not in the market for a mansion, you can create a similar sense of luxury in your own space with thoughtful, affordable upgrades.
Instead of buying an expensive home, invest in quality home décor like plush throw pillows, elegant lighting, or high-thread-count linens. You can even save money while upgrading your space by using cash-back apps like Rakuten.
Download Rakuten and earn cashback on home décor, furniture, and more. With Rakuten, you can transform your space for less while earning money back on your purchases.
3. Designer Clothes and Accessories → Dress Like a Millionaire on a Budget
High-end fashion brands are beloved by the wealthy, with some people spending tens of thousands on a single handbag or designer outfit. The global luxury fashion market is projected to reach $295 billion by 2025.
You can still dress stylishly and feel like a million bucks without draining your wallet. Shop at outlet stores or online consignment shops for designer-inspired pieces.
Websites like TheRealReal offer authentic, gently used designer items at a fraction of the original price.
For luxury fashion at discounted prices, shop TheRealReal. You’ll look like a million bucks without spending it!
4. Exotic Vacations and Exclusive Experiences → Indulge in Luxe Staycations
The rich often splurge on exotic vacations, with some trips costing upwards of $50,000 for private islands and luxury experiences. While that might be out of reach, you can still indulge in relaxing, luxurious experiences closer to home.
Book a staycation at a boutique hotel in your city or a nearby resort. You could also splurge on experiences like spa treatments or gourmet dining at an upscale restaurant, paid for with credit card points from cards like American Express Gold.
Use the American Express Gold card to earn points on dining and travel, then redeem those points for luxurious experiences like staycations or fine dining.
5. Fine Art and Collectibles → Curate Your Own Affordable Art Collection
The world’s wealthiest individuals spend millions on fine art. For example, the art market exceeded $67 billion in sales in 2022, with some paintings fetching prices in the hundreds of millions. However, you don’t need to be a billionaire to bring beautiful art into your home.
Explore local art galleries, visit emerging artists’ websites, or shop for limited edition prints to curate your own art collection. And don’t forget, cashback apps like Honey can help you save money when shopping online for art.
Get Honey and automatically apply discount codes to your online purchases, including home décor and art.
6. Private Staff and Services → Outsource on a Budget
Many wealthy individuals hire private chefs, personal trainers, and assistants to take care of daily tasks. For example, personal chefs can cost $30,000 to $80,000 per year. While full-time staff might not be realistic, you can still enjoy similar luxuries at a fraction of the price.
Try subscription meal services like HelloFresh, or use fitness apps like Aaptiv to get the personal trainer experience. If you need help with chores, consider apps like TaskRabbit, where you can hire someone to assist with tasks on an hourly basis.
Sign up for Aaptiv and get personalized workout plans from professional trainers, all from your phone.
Bottom Line
While the rich may have the means to indulge in extravagant luxuries, you don’t need millions to feel like you’re living in style.
With these affordable alternatives and the right financial tools like cashback apps, credit card rewards, and personal finance apps, you can enjoy the finer things in life while keeping your financial health intact.
