You might want to check out the NY Times archives. Most local libraries subscribe to the Times.

They have an ongoing feature where they break down how various City residents live on their salary. I think the last one I saw was a college professor living on $130,000/year and someone else doing it on $40,000.00

Another thing to remember is that there are a lot of things that residents know/use that tourists are unaware of. Half price or free access to shows, free admission to museums for residents, sample sales, etc.

Finally, many people work in the city and are willing to take long commutes. I know folks who live in Pennsylvania and drive two hours each way every day. another guy had his family living out of state; he'd sleep at his mother's place five nights a week and spend the weekend with his wife and kids.

manhattan? or inner part of queens/bronx? No.

bronx, staten island, end of subway line in bronx/brooklyn, yes.

Holy shit, I could live in a nice hotel for 5000 a month.

80k before tax or after? and supporting a family or not? contributing to retirement or not?

the way the govt is going I wouldn't count on much from social security and Medicare when u retire, so contribute to retirement asap.

but at that level, rent will eat up half your income. if you're making 80k before tax, it's going to be tight. parking is also insanely expensive

you may likely be able to move further out and get lower rent