How a Chicago Designer Trades a $75k Salary for $96 Rent in Yellowstone
Zoe De La Paz, 26, left a $75,000 mechanical design job in Chicago to work as a seamstress for Xanterra Parks & Resorts in Yellowstone National Park. She pays $96/month for dormitory housing that includes utilities and Wi-Fi, and $359/month for a meal stipend. Although her hourly wage is $19.25, she reports higher life satisfaction and lower living costs. Her seasonal contract ends in late 2026, after which she plans to pursue costuming work in Los Angeles or New York City.