At what age do think a guy should be living on his own?

Question

What age do you feel a  guy should live on his own? Is there a problem when a guy still lives @ his mom's house?

troamundos · Accepted Answer

Wow…I appear to be the first girl to think its fine for a guy to live at home with their parents till he’s 30yrs…40yrs…till you die! I’m not being sarcastic. I will be graduating in May into a medical career with a worse shortage than nursing (lab technologist) and expecting to earn $52k average. I have already decided I will move back home indefinitely (pretty much until I decide to live with my husband…whom I’ve yet to meet) These are the reasons I’ll be living at home, and I see no reason why a guy can’t live at home with just as much self-respect.

-I’ve got college debt, and this way I’ll pay it off faster (thus saving on the interest)

-Everything is expensive, even if I can pay for a nice apartment, why? I’d rather buy a plane ticket, or brand clothes, a nice car, etc etc

- Chores: I’m deeply sexist when it comes to division of labor =) But however you divide the work, specialization means more gets done in shorter time and less effort. What’s so great about having your very own lawn to mow, gutters to clean out, garden to weed, drive to shovel, bathroom to clean (you can’t just say back when I lived at home with 4 people and the bathroom was washed every week, now that its got 4X less use I’ll wash it 1/month. Ew!), house to dust and vacuum, dinners to make (you can’t just eat out always. That’s expensive. And fast food and frozen is unhealthy). You own the whole heat and electricity bill…..I’m not coming home to have my dad service my car and my mom do my laundry and dinner. I fully plan to chip in at home. In fact I hope to give my parents a rest. But I also know that I’ll do less chores at my parents home than what I’d have to do anyway if I lived on my own. If I do my laundry at my parents house, and since I’m doing mine anyway, throws theirs in too…Well I still did the laundry, and then since my mom didn’t have to do hers she cooks dinner (which I get to eat and I didn’t have to make), and my dad whose laundry and dinner are done for him can do whatever productive thing he decides to do, which of course benefits the whole family.

-And its not like I just LOVE doing chores. The entire point of sharing the benefit of labor with the family, is that there is less! So I can go out with friends more, or work and get more money etc etc.

-Most important tho: I deplore the American tradition of losing touch with family. I love my family. They’ll be gone some day. Why should I be ashamed to want to share my day-to-day life with people I love just because they’re a generation older?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Wow. It's interesting the numbers people are coming up with. I guess it's a cultural thing? I'm curious as to where the people who believe 18 is the magic number live. Or maybe it's more of a gender issue because it seems to me that many of these low-number answers are coming from the females. Studies show that males are more realistic. I'm going to have to agree with research on this one.

(Sorry. I guess my way of thinking comes from being a science major, lol.)

I think you should live on your own when you are ready and able to provide for yourself. Ideally, I would want my guy to have his own place in his mid-twenties, but the economy is so shaky right now. It makes living at home seem like the smartest thing. My brother is 23 years old and wants to move out, hopefully, within the next year. But he's not working full time, so I can't imagine that working out.

It's unrealistic to live on your own at 18, but I guess it depends on the situation. My brother's friend is ridiculously smart and was able to get a well-paying job working with computers without going to college. There's no reason for him to live at home. He's making at LEAST 60k (I'm sure it's more, but I don't remember the details), so I'd consider him selfish if he did. I believe he worked for a year before moving out. If you have a full ride to college and will therefore graduate with no loans, I can see it happening if you've saved up enough money during your years in school AND will come out of college with a decent job & steady income. It happens, but that's too ideal. The reality is that students graduate already in debt, many without jobs.

Unless you're in medical school or some other grad school, living at home when you're in your 30s is too much. I wouldn't want to date someone who's in his late 20s and still doesn't have his own place. I would be sympathetic if it's for monetary reasons, but I don't see myself dating someone like that. I know it's a sweet deal living at home, but the bird's going to have to leave the nest at some point.

hisangel · Accepted Answer

I think a person should move out when they want to move out.

I traveled a lot when I was younger and was kind of surprised to find out that the idea of a person moving out at a young age (or at all) only happens in certain cultures. In a lot of cultures, families live together their whole lives. A man gets married and brings a wife back home to his family. I see the wisdom in that because humans are sort of pack animals by nature. We aren't meant to be alone. So I think when someone gets pressure on them to move out, whether guy or girl, and they have no stable person to move in with, it can cause a lot of loneliness and a lot of depression.

Also I've seen so many friends go through the game of moving out, getting a roommate, having that person either not be stable so bills aren't getting paid or that person ends up moving out, leaving the other person to either find another roommate or go home. And after struggling with bills on their own for a while, they finally move home.

This is just my opinion, but I think the reason guys get a harsher wrap on this then girls do is because we tend to think that a guy living at home isn't going to find a girlfriend or wife cause his mother is taking care of him. I'm not saying that is true but that is the stereotype. So we usually push men out of the nest so they can feel the desire for a partner and then he will get married. But with a woman, even if she is living at home, she still will want a partner. And a woman leaving at home is usually seen as living in a holder area until see gets married so its usually considered OK for her to stay there longer.

But like I said, I think every person has to decide for themselves. My partner was young when he left home cause he was financially able to take care of himself with no help from anyone and he just needed to get out of there. So I think it's a personality thing and guys shouldn't be forced out if they aren't ready.

gotc147 · Accepted Answer

Seeing some interesting numbers here.

I'm 21 and work part-time for less than $12/hour (BEFORE taxes). I'm employed by US Airways, a legacy airline and if you know anything about the airlines you'll know that the legacy airlines are no longer dominating the industry, so the future of my employment (and yes, I've applied for other jobs, nobody's hiring) is up in the air. I've put in requests for supervisory positions and full-time but there simply are no positions to be given.

Because of my underemployment and unsecured employment future (and a lack of overtime), I have no choice but to live at home, I can't even go to school because I need to keep my time free for possible extra shifts (it's reeeeeealy fun working to midnight one day then starting at 4:30AM the next day). I very much hope to start school again come fall 2010 but right now it's just not in the cards unless the economy improves and people start flying again.

Turn-off or not, it just makes no sense for me to move out now or in the near future, but once I do you can find my in Clark County Nevada.

coolguy93939 · Accepted Answer

well considering the prices of houses and apartments

are increasing and people are losing jobs, and people

arent getting paid well enough, whenever they can. (im talking USA)

people are saying at 18. you guys are funny. what? your

going to buy yourself an apartment with that minimum wage

job at mcdonalds?

personally I rather live with my parents till I have enough money

to buy my own place. f*** renting a place. that's like giving money

to someone else for you to live. why do that when you can buy

YOUR OWN place, and instead of paying some asshole rent, you

pay a mortgage, and after your done doing that, its your own place.

on the other hand if you rent, the owner can decide they don't want

you there anymore and then your screwed. you gotta find a new place

germanotaku · Answer

It all depends on when you start earning your own money and I'm not referring to part-time-jobs here.

You can't afford a quality lifestyle with a part-time-job. I'm 23 turning 24 next January. I've finished my traineeship at work 1.25 years ago and right now I've saved enough money to be able to buy anything I wish for in my own home.

I plan to move out first quarter next year, though it can be as late as 2nd quarter, too.

And I think it's a good time to move out. It all depends on what you do. Doing mature school degrees, then you're at least 19 years old when finishing school. Doing a traineeship then you're at least 22 years old but that money ain't enough to life on your own. So maybe with a part time job, too, you can afford living a quality life in your own HOME, but I wouldn't wanna do this. It's too stressful and I see no shame saying this.

So then after traineeship you're at least 22 and work for an additional year, then you're 23 at least and then you have saved enough money (if you're a good saver that is) to life on your own and have some fun.

Having a financial plan, to be able to actually life on your own. To me this is more important than moving out too soon and eventually regretting it or to need help of my parents.

DrJones · Answer

It depends quite a bit on where you live.

In Japan, where apartments and real estate are very expensive, it's common to live with your parents well into your late 20s or beyond. In the U.S. where land is cheap, I moved out when I was 17, though I still had help with stuff nobody can afford here (education, health care, cars).

Here's the weird part: when I lived in The South, girls *exclusively* dated guys who lived with their parents. The 20- and 30-somethings who lived with their rich parents all had multiple girlfriends all the time, while the guys who lived on their own could barely get dates. (I had one gf, but I met her when I was sleeping on my friends' couch. I guess the important thing is not paying rent.)

When I lived anywhere else, the pattern reversed. Guys like me who had our place, washed our own dishes, and generally took care of stuff became popular with girls. 20- and 30-somethings who lived with their parents were looked down on. Needless to say, I'm not moving back.

All romantic stuff aside, the best time to move out is whenever either of these happens:

a) it's no longer economically impractical to live on your own, or

b) your parents are abusive, crazy, violent, or otherwise defective.

timetofly2010 · Answer

well concerning your updates-

not so much the financial aspect, a girl needs to be protected. a guy needs to learn how to be independant sooner/longer because he is the one that will most likely to have to bring home the bread. he has to know how to handle the real world

now I know that its the 21st century but you have to admit that in reality this is the way it is. mother nature is still alive and woman and men are still not completely equal/the same

i don't think its a problem that a guy still lives at his moms house unless his like 28 or whatever. I think 24-26 is a good time to move out, move on, and really learn the ways of the world. and I think girls should definitely be independant from her parents before she gets married because she needs time to know about herself without the pressures of parents.

this also has a lot to do with cultures,

in armenia (where I'm from but don't agree with this) most girls (not sure about guys) live with their parents until theyre married. I really think that this is stupid because lets say her parents pass away and something happens to her husband, she won't know what the heck she should do- marry another guy asap?

its the same with guys

overall I would just say you should live on your own for like at least a year or two before having to settle down with someone

but then again some people have generations under one roof

sazkion · Answer

Well I'm 21 and still live at my parents house. I'm not ashamed of it though, I work hard at my job and go to college full time and I wouldn't be able to afford living on my own without borrowing money.

I moved out on my own right after I graduated when I went to college in a small town. I was unable to find a job while I was there so I had to move back home and attend a different college that was closer to my house.

I think a guy should move out as soon as he is able in order to grow up and experience other parts of the world. I'm not saying that men who still live with the parents in immature they just haven't experienced having to worry about bills and being in charge of their own house.

All in all, if you can afford to move out then you should. If you will have to borrow money and get in debt in order to afford to move out then you shouldn't until you can do it without being in debt. Just make sure you are working hard and moving forward in your life and you'll feel when it's right to move out!

spool · Answer

Lol the situation I am currently in is, I'm 19 myself and going to university next year which is litterly just down the road. I'm pretty lazy person and really love having my weeknds to myself, renting in New Zealand is a real pain and I would defiantly need to nearly take all the other time in my life apart from attending university to work just to keep myself up. Id rather get student allowance of about 170 a week and use that to party on =]]

All my mates are about the same age as me yet a little older, most of them turning 20 while I won't until next year. Out of the 6 of them only 1 lives in an apartment, this one due to the fact is failing in university and turned to drugs. All the others still live with their parents, and mostly all pay them some sort of rent? I used too also until I was made redundant for the company I was working for going under...

What it comes down to though is not how other people feel, but what is socially accepted in your community personally. In New Zealand it is just common place for Teens going on young adults to not leave home at a very young age, while iv heard overseas its weird to still be living at home when your 18. To me this makes no sence, if I was kicked out at 18 I defiantly would not be the same person I am now and probably for the worst.

All and all, I live at home, I am 19 and I up until very recently payed rent. I help out with the house and I do not spend all my time here also. I will be going back to uni next year and its going to make it a lot easier to copy, and not needing to pay super high rent/ phone bills/ internet bills and so on...Though when I hit 20 next year, I will defiantly be looking at myself thinking what the hell am I doing.

AlanHB · Answer

There are a lot of people saying "with the state of the economy these days bla bla bla". The truth is that you can move out at any age if you get a job. Even a part time job will suffice if you learn how to budget correctly. You can make all the excuses you want, but if you REALLY want money, you will be willing to work ANY job.

The concept of a "poor student" applies to students who move out of home, work part time at minimum wage and study at the same time. It's not applied to students who get a free ride by living with their parents.

I moved out of home when I was 21. I couldn't stand living with my parents anymore, I wanted independence. That was 5 years ago now, and I've just graduated with a law degree. I worked a multitude of different jobs during my time at university. I never made heaps of money, but it was easily enough to buy food from the supermarket. One huge benefit of moving out of home was the ability to bring girls there. I got my first girlfriend the year I moved out.

Anonymous · Answer

If a guy is still in college, no problem. If he is out and working, still not a problem as long as he is paying rent to his family and helping with chores, etc. I wouldn't date someone who should be working but being lazy and leeching off his family.

I moved out when I was 17. There was a point I moved back after my divorce and I paid rent and helped around the house. At one point I went back to college and my mom did not charge me rent so that I could get my Bachelor's. It was a win/win because I got a great career from that and I have done a lot for my mom since, like I should as her daughter.

My brother is in his 40's and never lived away from home except when he went to college in his 30's. He's an engineer, has a good job, a girlfriend and could care less to move. He pays rent, has done major construction work on my mom's house like roofing, kitchen and bathroom remodels, etc. He is not interested in getting married or having kids and my mom doesn't spend a lot of time at the house as she has a boyfriend. I know, it all sounds a bit odd but it works for them because they treat each other with respect as adults, not a kid living off his parent. It's kind of like the old-fashioned way extended families used to live together or still do in some countries.

Anonymous · Answer

Seriously, who would leave their parents alone for the sake of one of these mean immature sugar daddy desiring girls like the ones were commenting here? do you really think we'd prefer you over the ones that have raised us and took care of us since we were born? and what the hell do we get with you other than headaches and sh*t? and in the end after you sweep our pockets clean and mess up our lives you run with a wealthier older guy? really girls do you think you're worth it?

I think any guy who's saving money and building his life up only to impress girls and get one of them into his bed is dump. Your mom and dad will always love you and won't ever replace you, but those mean b*tches are the source of sadness and trouble. Save money and get a career and serve ur parents like they deserve then get married to a chick with morals and values and get her into your house that u've built for that reason. After all I've seen, most girls are players, the girlfriend/boyfriend thing as a whole was created for that purpose particularly, because girls don't want to be tamed or controlled any more and want to try as many men as they want, drain our money, feelings and health. Well, go to hell seriously, I might be having my own home, but I wouldn't let one of you (ones with comments here) inside for the world, a guy living on his own will only want to use you as slaves if you were clean enough.

Get some guts and educated yourselves or at least work as hard as we are working, don't expect a guy to do everything for u, we're in the 21th century ppl! you want equality? work for it, stop whining about poor guys that can't afford to buy you ur holy crap.

twilightfan123 · Answer

My bro is 25 and still living at home. Honestly, I like having him here because I don't know what I'd do if I were stuck with my parents alone. My dad is against it once in a while because he grew up independently, but it's not like he's a pain in the ass. He does his own laundry and cooks most of his own meals unless we're eating dinner as a family. Not to mention he's the only one in the house who is smart with computers and that kind of stuff, my parents don't know sh*t and will practically break every electronic they touch.

Anyway, I'm assuming you're asking this question because you're worried about what other people think of you still living with your parents. Well my answer is, don't worry about it. There are so many other people out there stuck in the same situation. What I don't get is why you wouldn't move out when you got the chance. I can't stand the lack of freedom I get here and can't wait to move out in 3 years.

bumble-bee · Answer

"I cannot believe some of the answers here. Don't you guys have any self-respect?"

Thats a little harsh, its not like they said "we're waiting for our parents to kick the bucket so we can have the house all to ourselves"

I don't think there is a right age to move out. Like coolguy93939 said why pay someone else's mortgage when you can pay your own. I think you should move out when you are able to support yourself financially. I know a lot of people that have felt the need to move out because their getting too old to be living at home and then end up moving back because they can't afford it. In my opinion that's worse because you get to experience all this freedom and then go back to being a little kid again with your mum knocking on your door telling you your gonna be late for work.

Professor_Zoom · Answer

The age to move out is the age you are ready to move out. The age to move out is also when your parents are nudging you to move out. If you're working and you can afford rent, utilities, groceries, and whatever else you will have to purchase, then go ahead and move. If you're really ready to move and you think you can't afford those things, look into just renting a room or getting a roommate. But there is no age. I know guys who moved out when they were 16. I know guys who are home and they are 30. Granted, by 30 you should be gone from the nest. But if you're contributing to the house then I guess it's okay. So, do you think that you are ready to move on your own?

SmoothBlue17 · Answer

WOW! I can't believe some of these girls answers. I completely agree with "coolguy93939". How are you going be able to afford moving out on your own, especially the way the economy is, having a part time job (minimum wage) and going to college at the same time. How would you pay for school at that to? College is expensive now or days and they nickel and dime you any way they can charging taxes and fees up the ***. Then you would need to afford a car and pay off that with insurance. Its way too much of a hassle and burden to move out on your own.

imo I feel there is no exact age to move out. I feel once your ready to tackle the world and afford all of the necessities to survive then you can move out. If I had to provide an age I would say age 25 or the age after you finish college and have settle down a little bit, like have all of your priorities straight, with your college degree in your back pocket.

GaavensGirl · Answer

Ok so I'm 21,I still live at home and I'll finish university in 3 years.My boyfriend is 24, he still lives at home, he has a job but he is saving money so we can get married when I graduate.I would like to find a job before we get married so I can also contribute to bills, food and everything else that goes along with marriage so right now it would be a little hard to move out AND still save money if we plan to have a financially secure life together.Right now he helps his parents with bills,money for food and other stuff so it would be wrong to just leave now anyway and I have no problem with it.At least in 3-4 years they would have had enough time to plan accordingly because he won't be there for ever.I agree with one girl who said that a guy/girl should move out when they are financially and mentally responsible to live on their own.Many people move out before they are ready and still have to move back in.Unless for a good reason I think that is worst than staying home.

abra_b · Answer

depends on if he is trying to make a better living for himself and/or contributing to the household in some way. I know many guys and gals who live at home into their mid twenties because they want to spend their money on clothes/booze/eating out/video games what-have-you. Generally, these are the types that also contribute nothing to the household, such as helping with chores and such,.

Others live at home to save to buy their own house/go to college/raise a young child, but also pitch in with the duties and try to be respectful of their family's values.

flchickypoo · Answer

This all depends if they are in college and such...if a guy is living with mommy cause he is too lazy to get a job and place of his own total turn off...if he is living with mommy cause he waste his money on car speakers and video games and is not responsible enough to pay bills major turn off...now if he is living with mommy cause he is in college and plans on making something on himself then its okay...or maybe living with mom because he is helping her with bills or taking care of her that is cute too...but normally its a red flag if he doesn't have enough money to make it on his own how is he going to take me on dates and such? so age depends on situation I personally moved from my parents house the min I graduated high school!

PrettyStarLight · Answer

Well, I think that anyone 21 and over should start to think about becoming independent from their parents. However, I know that sometimes school can make this a bit tough. If a person is in school full time then I could understand waiting a bit longer. Also, if a person is living with their parents for some kind of unusual circumstance, and they are NOT mooching, then I could also understand. Even a student can have a full time job and help pay.

I am an adult and I live with mom because she can't afford to live on her own. If I moved out then she would have to live in a dump she could afford. I can't do that! I am waiting for her retirement to come in so she can begin getting benefits. That's about 1 year away so it's ok. I pay all the bills at home. She buys the food. I would hope that any guy I date would understand.

timberlake · Answer

times are very hard right now, even with a college education, it's hard to get a job. I don't believe that women have a harder time and a younger age to move out. if anything, I think guys are more frowned upon for staying with their parents longer, but I won't be on a guy's ass too much if he's under 30 and still living at home, but I think around 27 - 29 he should be trying to support himself. that's what I'm trying to do for me, so I guess I'm expecting the same thing from the guy.

the only exception to this rule is when guys (or girls) start moving in friends or boyfriends/girlfriends into their parents' home. that irks my soul because you shouldn't be that much of a burden on your parents. if you want to live with someone else while you're living with someone else, it's time to go. I don't care what age you are.

jeeperss · Answer

20-something. maybe like 22-23? even 24. or even when you graduate from college. as a student, I can definitely attest to the fact that it's more economical to live at home. saves a lot of money while you're still in school and still trying to break through, get a job, etc.

but as h3lly3s points out, if you're not going to college, then perhaps you have some other life plans like work straight after high school. in that case, perhaps when you're like 20-21. I mean, you've already decided to start your life earlier on, you might as well face up to more responsibility. after all, the way I see it, it's like saying, hey, I'm ready for life, I'm not going to postpone it with post-sec education.

as for a difference between guys and girls, I donno. I feel like guys should move out earlier than girls, but I really can't give a clear reason as to why, which leads me to believe it's some sort of social conditioning that doesn't have much logic behind it.

sonic241928 · Answer

Reply to your update: yes, I think girls can be a little hypocritical on this issue.  Maybe it's not a terrible thing; girls are wired to be attracted to strong, independent men who are go-getters who can be providers for them, and for many girls, a guy still living at home doesn't fit that image.  It's okay though, because there are sophisticated girls out there that won't be so short-sighted.  There are girls who know that life isn't perfect for every guy.  There are girls who will be attracted to you for who you are, and not for your living situation.  As you have a good reason for not being on your own, and long as you can demonstrate a drive towards independence (i.e., getting a job or two, getting involved in volunteer organizations, learning stuff independently/developing fun and possibly profitable hobbies, etc.), I don't see how a reasonable girl won't like you and stick by your side.  It's just up to you to find her.

tex151 · Answer

Well normally it is when you graduate from college or if you don't go to college, when you get a good paying job to pay rent, bills, and other necessities. But if you haven't noticed our economy in the USA and other parts of the world have really messed things up for not only college grads but even people who have been in the work force for years. Company's are going under left and right not as bad as they were but still.

We're outta the recession my ass we are. Even lots of people who moved out and lost their jobs are moving back in with their parents, so don't feel bad if your 20 something years old and have to live at home still because you can't find a job. Eventually the economy will bounce back but if that means living with mom longer than you thought oh well consider yourself lucky that you have a place to stay.

the-love-guru · Answer

It really depends. If you're in school, it's more accepted to be living at home. Guys are generally able to make a living (even working blue collar with no formal education) at a relatively younger age, while the options are fewer for women. Usually.

I'm 23, and it kills me that I still live at home. I'm in school, but I only have a part time job that could not support me. Don't get me wrong, I love my family... but I feel like I should be out on my own. I wish the job market wasn't so bleak.

But as long as you support yourself as much as you can, people can't make you feel bad. Everyone is struggling at this point. Might as well enjoy the housing situation. :)

Marik · Answer

I want to move out by the end of the next summer.

I am 20 and turning 21 soon. I went to university but dropped out. There is nothing really going for me besides living for free with my parents. I need a change.

Now I want to go back to school and this time I want to take things more seriously. I want to move to a different city and start living my adult life. I knot that I will struggle at first but in the future it will pay off.

Way TOO MANY guys who in their 20s and 30s live with their parents. Come on guys face it that your parents will not be able to support you all the time. You need to get out from your parents' cocoon.

ravvo99 · Answer

23/24 years old. Whatever age you'd be one year after college ends (graduate school is no excuse. You should be independent by then seeing as the gov't loans pay your whole way in graduate school, unlike undergrad). This give you a year to get your life together and find a job or a graduate school.

I still say that the 23/24 rule applies to people who don't go to college. You need a longer time to build up a solid job and/or long lasting career with just a HS diploma. Because of that, the five year period is okay. Additionally, you're really not ready to be truly on your own at 18 given the current cost of living. If it was less it might be different, but cost of living has increased to a point where most HS-diplomates need a few years to build up a bank to get them on their feet when they leave and 5 years seems realistic.

Xenophobia · Answer

It all accounts to your finances too...I mean don't feel bad if you have to live at home until your 26-27...I mean everyone does have student loans to pay for, and paying off your loans should be the first priority. In any case, everyone lives a different life...so this question is truly subjective to an extent.

People might think its all hip to live on your own and...dont get me wrong it is, but if you are going to go into further debt, because you are affraid people are going to judge you, then that's your own problem.

I wouldn't worry about what others think...some people get things handed to them, while others have to work there asses off to make ends meet.

Standingpretty · Answer

Well, I think maybe girls think of it differently because usually guys make more money and have less limitations so they would expect a guy to move out first. I personally don't think it's that bad and think that guy should probably be on his way to moving out by the age of 23-24, because by law parents are finacially responsable for their children until age 24 so when your completely one unit and no longer attached to your parents, you should probably be trying to get out by then. Also, I think maturity and knowledge are important, so in a way it makes sense to wait if you still have a lot to learn about finances and still have some maturing to do. Also, on a last though girls might want/expect guys to be out sooner because when they want to have a romantic night with their Boyfriend they don't want their Bf's parents to be hanging around. Hope this clears that up for you!

sef0181 · Answer

Within a year of graduation from whatever is the highest level of education you are going to receive, unless there is issues finding a job (which is kind of understandable). But if you are going to enter the workforce out of highschool, you should really be headed out the door at 19 or 20. If you are going 4 years of college, then you should be finding a place anywhere between 21-23. If you are going to go to graduate school... perhaps you should be on your own going into school.

But I deff grew up in a "grow your wings and try 'em out ASAP" househould

Dela1111 · Answer

I think a guy should move out at age 18. There is no real right of passage into manhood so the best you can do is go out there and take on the responsibilities of an adult. Btw if you move out yet are still dependent on your parents, this doesn't mean you are out on your own. Whether you go to the military or go off to college life and get a job, you need to go out on your own as soon as possible or it will become harder and harder to move out.

For girls this is different, and I suggest girls live at home until they are 22, or out of college and can afford a place of their own.

krissadd · Answer

I don't think there's an exact age, I think it depends on where you are in life and its also up to your parents.. of course if your around 30 I think that's a little crazy and over the top.. but everyone has their issues and everythings different. I think its good for people to live on their own to learn responsibility and just how crazy the real world is out there. I know if you live at home (in some cases, not all) Your parents will do everything for you... which can make you lazy and not really understand how tiring it is to have your own place... But of course there are many different parents out there who will make you do house chores, have a job, go to school.. and the whole shabang. A good benefit to living at home is being able to save up money for things such as, a nice, car, house, marriage, family... I think living on your own can be kind of a waste when you can live with your parents and save for your future.. haha I don't know there's a lot of pros and cons...

Telemusik · Answer

im 25 and working and curently trying to get my band going, once I realise my band ain't taking off I'll then get myself sorted out flat wise. but I pay my own ways and if anything my mum is better off with me around as I drive and help her with shopping and I'm alos very hand round the house which comesin handy when she is a single mum.

So all you girls really need to get a clue what suits you doesn't suit everyone currently I'm needed at home as much as I need the home, the moment that changes ill make a move.

NellieDee · Answer

As long as you have a job and you're paying the bills (at least half), then it's fine, but not any older than 25 in my opinion.

Some girls might be a little hypocritical (especially when they're like 'Daddy's girl') but I think that may be a little biased.

Anonymous · Answer

I think a guy should move out at 18, unless there is a reason he can't.

For example, if he is in college and is saving money by living at home, then that is OK. If he has a low-paid job that he loves and he devotes all his energy and time to that instead of getting a boring, better-paid job, then that is OK. It is OK if he is taking care of his parents. In all cases, if a guy is living at home, then he should be helping with expenses as much as possible and doing household chores.

If the guy just doesn't want to be poor and spends most of his time lying around the house, getting his mom to cook and do his laundry, and having his friends over, then the guy is pathetic and I would avoid him. Most girls would not want to be with a guy like this.

Anonymous · Answer

i'd say whenever he feels he's ready to do it.. it is a big step and the world is much harder than it was when our parents were our age..personally I'm 20, and the only reason I have to move out is because I don't get that along with my mom.. We have our good and bad days, but appart of that, I can't afford a place of my own, paying bills etc, and I like having my clothes clean and a meal on the table evry night.. my boyfriend is 24 and he still lives with his parents too. both our parents have told us to consider moving out but it's a big step to take, whenever you feel ready I suppose, except if things are pushing you to do it.. I'd love to live by myself but I'm not ready.. also, it depends on your background, where you come from, this has a big impact on it as well..

Anonymous · Answer

I really don't think there is a certain age - especially the way things are now with the economy. It's almost stupid to make any big moves living wise or career wise right now. Things just aren't stable enough to move around by yourself.

I'm 24 and still living at home. I was waiting for my long term girlfriend to finish school before we got a place together. Now that we broke up I'm pretty much stuck at home. I have been debating to move out, but now I don't have a real reason to do it. I have a decent job, get alone with my parents, have a huge savings account ... I'll stay at least a couple more years unless I get a reason to move.

jacquesvol · Answer

When I graduated from uni I was drafted and never came back home. (when I was still at the uni they didn't see me many times either, often only to sleep)

My wife had a studio near the uni and went back home every week, then for a full year after she graduated, while I was in the army.

When he was something like 15 we told our son that at 18 he would be on his own.

When he went to uni in another town at 18 we rented a studio for him. He came back once a week at first, for weekends. Within a month he had a new(!) girlfriend. He started coming back home once a month. They studied together, graduated together (got their PhD. with honours) and married after graduating.

Anonymous · Answer

Regarding your update. No, I do not think girls are hypocritical about this. I don't know who you are thinking of when you say that they themselves haven't moved out.

Some guys insulted girls who had moved out by saying that they must have been kicked out or living on the streets! I'm shocked at the lengths these guys will go to to justify and make excuses for their lack of independence and sponging off their parents.

From what I can see, the girls who commented about when a guy should move out have the attitude that EVERYONE should be independent on reaching adulthood, unless there is a good reason not to be. Pretty much everyone understands that the economy or bad family events/sickness sometimes make it difficult to move out. Some of the guys here have no reason not to be independent and that is not attractive.

csulbfriend · Answer

I'm a guy and I would say it depends on circumstances. I mean I work 28 hours, college full time, and have to spend around at least another 36 hours practicing piano. Not to mention my mom underwent chemotherapy and she isn't able to pay living expenses herself.

It depends...

MercuryKitten · Answer

It depends on someone's circumstances. If you have a ton of debt to pay back and you actually get along with your parents and are paying them some rent, I don't see what the problem is to stay there until your mid-20s or so.

If you're just a bum who barely works and whatnot, then you look like a loser.

lekeke · Answer

i think 20 is good age to move out...23 ur pushing it...25 yeah well...that's kinda creepy...unless it's like you and ur siblings who are around the same age and it;s a close family, or you parents live with u...but I would say by 25 you should be out

Littletad · Answer

I've lived on my own for two years and haven't living at my parents house since 20. I'm currently living with my aunt for a better job opportunity in Arizona and am working on what I'll be doing next year after graduation. I'll never live at my parents house again.

There should be no age limit, so long as you have a plan and your doing something constructive with your time and career.

Anonymous · Answer

Where I live, a decent studio apartment can easily run over $1000. Many times that does not include water, electricity, phone, internet, washing machine, parking, etc. I'm almost finished with college, and I still live at home. If I can get a decent job ($20,000+/year) I will probably move out after I graduate (I'll probably be 23 by then). I have loans for school, and already work so that I can afford a decent social life.

If I had to pick an age, I'd say between 18 and 25. If you somehow have a lot of money, or if you start your career right out of high school, more towards 18. If you are going to school near your home, and do not have that much money, more towards 25. If you are working on your doctorate, and are still living at home to save money, I think you get a pass.

cutieuk · Answer

I would say that it would depend on the persons individual circumstances.  What are the reasons he is still living with his parents? is it economical for him, does he have to take care of his folks, has he been divorced/out of a long term relationship and needs family around him more than his own place.

inquisitive87 · Answer

As long as your in college, living at home with moms is cool with me...however, one should never use "work" as an excuse to not having his own place. A career is much more important then working at shoprite or someplace like that. If you live with moms and you got a job, you need to savve money up and get a room..or apartment.

MadHatterni · Answer

I want to move out at 25 not because of cost and no my parents don't take care of me with food, and clothing because I pay my own bills, despite my medical bills for the 5th year in a row will be 10,000+, so I Hope at 25 everything has turned around with my health, but I pay rent now and help out. Anything wrong with moving out at 25 due to a medical reason?

cailley · Answer

okay well I think that after college if they aren't living with like roomates or something then well it is a no go. haha that just does not work. at 25 a guy should deffinatly have his own place. but if he is trying his best espacially in todays economy and can't find a job give him a break, as long as his mom doesn't like walk in on you and baby him and as long as he is looking. otherwise GET AWAY cause he is going no where! especially at twenty eight cause he is going nowhere! hahaha :)

tyrantfuryre · Answer

To the update, most of the responses on here are terrible. Most of the girls on here are young, immature, ignorant and have no clue. All they care about are their mp3 players, cells phones, purses and shoes. That's why I said you kids are funny. Most of you haven't a clue.

Now, as long as you're making an attempt to situate yourself, you move out when you're ready and can afford to. Still living home at 30 is a little past due though IMO.

applecollagen · Answer

My ex boyfriend is now 39 and is still living at home. He only moved out of the house when we lived together for a 3 year span.  I think 23-25 is the time to make a move.  Unless you are still in school and need to save money but after 21 you need to begin to start a plan to support yourself. Just my opinion. I moved out by 23.

Nosperato · Answer

I moved out to study overseas but I plan on returning to my family when I'm done. Even if I get a place with my future wife or so I intend for it to be very nearby to my parents' house. I don't understand why some cultures find moving out so obligatory. I will stay with my parents as long as possible and support them financially and otherwise. I would want my kids to do the same and when my parents are gone, I will not have regretted it.

partyrockshot · Answer

Whenever its financially smart to do so. I plan on staying with my parents until I'm out of  college and have a job for at least a year. it doesn't bother me at all if a guy lives with his parents. it shows he's financially smart.

Cylon · Answer

I would normally say after the person gets out of college and gets a good job, but in our current economical state, that may take a while. I guess I still say that a guy should be out by their mid 20's. They should definitely be out by 30 unless they have to take care of their parents due to illnesses or the like.

swtlostchingrl82587 · Answer

Well I guess it varies on what that person can handle and if they are ready to move on their own. I don't think it's a gender thing I think it really depends on the personality

i myself is 22- And I want to move out so bad but I'm not capable. ...

But In general for any age --if one is 27/28 and still living @ home then I'd have a problem with that

so between 18-25/26 is okay with Me but not all girls... but I'm sure some guys see this differently..

jjjplayboy · Answer

As a guy I think there is no appropriate age to move out.

But yes as long as you are able to earn enough to feed year family and enjoy year life you should tell year parents that its their time to have rest and do things they always want to do, I'll take care of everything.

And prove that you are the George of the jungle now.

lananoel · Answer

When he can leave his guardians house and be self sufficient without much help. Honestly there are a multitude of reasons why men stay past the age of 21... As long  as continuous efforts to support himself are made it's his call. The problem comes when a lady tells a man how to be a man and criticizes his decisions with other men in mind... The better man is calculating and patient.

JumpThenFall · Answer

I think it's more accepted in my generation for people to live at home later. I would expect anyone, guy or girl, to not live at home by age 21 or 22.  That's about the age you are almost done with college [if you went] and should ideally be adjusting to the real world.

Theking · Answer

If you're in college/ university stay for as long as you need and then take a couple of years to build up you cash and move out. 24 or 25 is ideal. If you're a college dropout or just done high school etc, its similar. I started a business early on, then I built up my cash, got a Lexus and rented out a condo at 26. Stay as long as you need to to make cash to support yourself in the future while you're still not paying a full rent just don't stay past 28.

Honey18 · Answer

I moved out at 16 and by 17 I was living with roommates (still in high school) and paying my own bills. It's really not hard to do even while you are in school. I'm in college now, married, and going to have a kid (which we have plenty of money to pay for). My husband is 20 and hasn't lived with his parents since he was 18. I believe that after your  sophomore year in college you should probably be moved out by then. If you aren't going to college you should be moved out sooner.

foxracingchick · Answer

Well let me be honest with you I was on my own at 18 and still a senior in high school. That was a mistake but on the other hand don't you ever just want to do what you want when you want nobody to answer too. I am 25 years old been divorced and now am a single mom and live on my own and pay all my bill's and work full time on the other hand my boyfriend is 37 years old and still lives at home with his dad it is a very big problem in our relationship but we have been together for 3 years. And I want to take that next step by moving in with each other. But he would rather have everything so he don't have responsability so I guess when you look in the mirror someday and look at yourself and say I think it's time to grow up and live my own life and stop liveing under ur parent's then and only then will you be ready just hope it's not to late.

ashleynatasha · Answer

Well never move out when your not ready!You'll end up at square A again! But with my experience it best when a man lives on there own! It can cause allot of conflict that wouldn't have Ben there in the first place! But if you are dating and saving up money a girl shouldn't have a problem with it ,if they understand!Sometimes a mother could need some help from her son with the bills!So it depends on the lady

sarahjohnston09 · Answer

Honestly I think that everyone should be out of the house soon after they graduate. because it gets annoying when you wanna do stuff and you have other people there you can't use the whole house. I mean men living with their parents really doesn't matter though. Its their choice and its much cheeper.

stevo · Answer

I didn't branch off on my own until I was 25, but the thing is, my parents moved out and left me the house, strings attached. I still have to pay rent, bills, and the like, but it was worth it. I think the right age is when he can support himself. I think I should have done it earlier, but I was only working part-time and couldn't do it.

Anonymous · Answer

I cannot believe some of the answers here.  Don't you guys have any self-respect?  You are young, healthy adults but think it is alright to drain your parents of their retirement savings and have them take care of you.  Unless a guy needed to save money for a very good reason, I would not date a guy living at home for anything.

At what age do think a guy should be living on his own?

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At what age do think a guy should be living on his own?

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