23 years old , not sure where to start . Please help !!!

[Faysal Alam]

Hey everyone! I want to begin my investing career but not sure where to start , I make about 20k/year , I currently am renting in nyc for $700 a month , I have 15k cash saved up . And another 5k in my Roth IRA . I️ was wondering if you were me , what would be the best way to put myself in a better position for the future . My ultimate goal is to build up enough cash flow to where I no longer have to work for other people, do you think I️ should try to buy a rental , or should I️ try to get my foot in the door somewhere here in nyc so I️ can eliminate my rent . Any input , any advise is welcome! Also , moving out of NYC is not an option . I live with my parents and they do not drive, so staying in nyc is the best option for me.