Pay Dirt is Slate’s money advice column. Have a question? Send it to Kristin and Ilyce here . (It’s anonymous!)

Dear Pay Dirt,

I’m in my early 30s, and several years ago I inherited a paid-off house in one of the most expensive cities in the country. Most of my friends and coworkers are struggling to pay exorbitant rent and grocery prices. Inevitably, the insane cost of living here comes up in conversation, and they want to discuss housing costs.

I try to avoid the topic, but people tend to wonder how I can afford a house in our city, in a desirable neighborhood, on one (very modest) salary. I don’t want to lie, but when they find out the truth, the reaction is almost always negative, and it makes things uncomfortable. Honestly, I get it. I’m in an extremely fortunate, envi

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