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23 Looking For Feedback On My Financial Strategy

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23F looking for feedback on my financial strategy

I'm 23F , live in Tennessee, and work in design. I recently got a raise and now make $55,000/year. I currently rent with roommates and my rent is about $925/month.

Current financial picture:

  • Emergency fund: ~$4,800
  • Additional savings earmarked for future goals: ~$2,900
  • Roth IRA: ~$8,200
  • 401(k): ~$2,000 (will become eligible for employer match next month)
  • Taxable investments: ~$1,400
  • No credit card debt
  • Credit score: ~730

Student loans:

  • Total balance: ~$18,500
  • Two loans are around 3–4% interest and I'm planning to keep those on a normal repayment schedule.
  • Three loans are higher interest (roughly 5.5%–6.5%) and total around $12,000–$13,000. My goal is to pay these off as efficiently as possible.

Current plan:

  • Roth IRA contributions: $175 per paycheck (~$350/month)
  • Emergency fund: $100 per paycheck (~$200/month)
  • Additional savings for future goals: $100 per paycheck (~$200/month)
  • Student loans: minimum payment plus extra cash flow. I expect this to average around $400/month.

A few other notes:

  • I have access to a trust account (~$35k), but I don't factor it into my financial planning. My goal is to only use it for a future home purchase or potentially starting a business.
  • No plans for any major purchases in the next 1–2 years.
  • Long term goals include relocating to a larger city and eventually buying a home.

My main question: If you were in my position, would you prioritize paying off the 5.5%–6.5% student loans faster, increase retirement investing, or continue building cash savings? What would you do differently?

submitted by /u/BoatAdministrative43
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