You can't pay rent in SF with futures. Oddly enough, landlords expect to be paid in coin of the realm, or a digital equivalent in their bank, yesterday thanks.

The stock options are gambling. You have to meet Maslow before you dream about what colour your his-n-hers matching Tesla should be.

TL;DR unless you receive the grants and options post tax, they represent at BEST future income, and at WORST a present tax bill. Pay is what you need to factor, when it comes to rent and food.