If Penny from The Big bang Theory earns minimum wage (as stated in Episode 2 of Season 1) at the Cheesecake Factory, how can she afford the same type of apartment that two engineers (who presumably get a much higher salary) need to share?
It's clear Sheldon doesn't like people so I don't see any other reason for him to want a roomate if not to split the rent. Being that the case; how can Penny then afford one all for herself?