College athletes can finally get paid, but most will never sign a life-changing deal.

Investopedia asked financial advisors which they'd take: $150,000 in New York City or $80,000 in a low-cost-of-living city.

Once you reach your mid-20s, you may be earning almost 50% more than the youngest workers. But without a plan, lifestyle creep can quickly eat into those bigger paychecks.