I can only speak for myself. I do and I know lots of friends who do as well. I made 42k when I finished undergrad and have always maxed out my available tax beneficial savings (401k/403b/IRAs). Doing anything else would be negligent on my ability to prepare for my future where I would like to retire and not rely on social security, children or other programs.
Where were you living and when was that? My starting salary about $15k higher than that, but I still couldn't max out. Rent, insurances, car payment (eventually), food, taxes, etc really eat a big chunk. I always tried to save a lot, but it was probably only $14k per year (IRA + 401k). I'd say I'm still only around that because I now have a family to support and medical bills.
