It totally is a lot of money. Unfortunately, everything seems to cost a lot of money these days...
Ten years ago I wouldn't have believed you if you told me I'd be spending nearly $10k a year just to get adequate health care, or over $20k a year just to have a reasonable place to live. I was thrilled when my first salaried job paid $35k/year, and couldn't understand why that barely covered my expenses! $35000 is a lot of money! $110000 is a truckload!
(Thankfully, I'm in the OP's position this year, and I earned more than I spent on essential expenses... not so much last year, though.)
For the past few years, I've managed to earn more than I've spent, and have put a good portion of that money in savings.
If I should lose my job, I've got a significant cushion to survive on.
Ten years ago I wouldn't have believed you if you told me I'd be spending nearly $10k a year just to get adequate health care, or over $20k a year just to have a reasonable place to live. I was thrilled when my first salaried job paid $35k/year, and couldn't understand why that barely covered my expenses! $35000 is a lot of money! $110000 is a truckload!
(Thankfully, I'm in the OP's position this year, and I earned more than I spent on essential expenses... not so much last year, though.)