lol777, it all depends on your expectations. If you want to "live the life" i.e. lots of toys, that nice new Q7 or RRover etc, wife in new designer gear each week after a visit to the salon, then forget it.
If you are happy with good friends and a BBQ (brai etc) and a few beers or wines et al, then yes you can cover costs and save a bit.
The trick I've found is to not buy into the BS, plus I sent the family home, took the housing allowance at EK.