Rent (or mortgage) is typically the single highest expense for most people, always has been. If your are paying more than a third of your income in rent, you need to downsize or get a better job.
Agreed, 1/3 rule definitely does not work in VHCOL areas. I pay 28% in rent, that cuts down the commute and allows us to live at a stone's throw from good schools, grocery stores and small airports.
wow great idea, why didn't I think of that