I doubt if these men in their day, except for ordinary living expenses, spent five thousand dollars a year.
They were simple in their manners and tastes.
"The older generation was noted for industry, thrift, and economy.

An old merchant, an executor of the Burr estate which owned property opposite the new Public Library, once stated that no man who had a million dollars invested, could spend his income in a year.

Money at that time brought seven per cent.

The contents of an office did not exceed in cost fifty dollars, a pine desk and table, and a few chairs.
There were no stenographers and typewriters were unknown.
"Transportation was principally by stage.

There were car lines on Second, Third, Sixth, and Eighth Avenues.