Ideal answer to — should I stay home or move out for college?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. However, factors such as financial stability, proximity to campus, and desire for independence may help inform your decision.
An expanded response to your question
Choosing whether to stay home or move out for college is a decision that should be based on various factors. As mentioned, financial stability, proximity to campus, and the desire for independence are some of the critical factors to consider. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, in the fall of 2019, 5.3 million students enrolled in colleges outside their home state, while 6.6 million enrolled in colleges within their home state. Here are some more interesting facts to consider before making your decision:
Students who live on campus typically have a better chance of completing their degree than those who live off-campus.
The cost of living on campus varies by location and institution, with private schools being typically more expensive than public ones.
Living off-campus may give you more independence, but also comes with added responsibilities such as paying rent, utilities, and groceries.
While living at home during college can save money, the lack of privacy and the potential for distractions may negatively impact academic performance.
A study from Georgetown University found that students who move more than 100 miles from home for college are more likely to remain in that state after graduation.
As Aristotle once said, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” Therefore, it is crucial to consider your personal needs and preferences when deciding whether to stay at home or move out for college. Here’s a table summarizing some of the pros and cons of each option:
Stay at Home
Live on Campus
Live Off-Campus
Pros
Save money on room and board
Convenience
Increased independence
Proximity to family and familiar surroundings
Social opportunities
More privacy
No added responsibilities such as rent and utilities
The video discusses the pros and cons of moving away for college, including gaining independence, meeting new people, and exploring different cultures. However, socially anxious students may struggle with forming new communities and constant comparisons to others can be a downside. Living on campus offers convenience, a sense of community, and new experiences, but it can be expensive and detrimental to low-income students. Furthermore, getting sick while away from family can be difficult. Ultimately, moving away for college is a privilege not available to everyone and the decision to do so should be made based on individual circumstances.
Also, people ask
Should I move away for college or stay home?
The answer is: All in all, moving away for college is a great way to acquire and practice essential life skills. Students who move out for uni usually find that studying away from home teaches them a lot more than classes do – it’s a maturing experience that coincides with earning a qualification.
Is it OK to stay at home for college?
Response: If the college is a reasonable distance away, it would help to stay at home. However, if it is taking up too much of your time, you must weigh your options of time saved vs. money saved. It may be worth it to bear the extra expense of living in a dormitory just so you have extra time to get your schoolwork done.
What percentage of students move away from home for college?
Answer will be: In 2020, for example, as many as 43% of newly enrolled students moved to attend college. In 2022, this figure is still at nearly 40%.
Is it smart to live at home during college?
For many, living at home means making healthier, more nutritious choices. Plus, all that brain food will make you better and more focused at studying. Also, you can use the time you spend at home to pick up some cooking skills from your parents, so you can continue to practice healthy eating habits after graduation.
Is moving out for college a good idea?
The response is: All in all, moving away for college is a great way to acquire and practice essential life skills. Students who move out for uni usually find that studying away from home teaches them a lot more than classes do – it’s a maturing experience that coincides with earning a qualification.
Should a college student live at home?
Answer: You need to have some self-knowledge to figure this one out. I know some students who live on campus at a college close to home who rarely see their parents, and others who feel the need to drive home often to have a home-cooked meal or do laundry. You may decide to live at home in order to save on the room and board costs.
Should you move out of state or stay close to home?
The reply will be: For students seeking a totally new and immersive experience in college, staying close to home doesn’t offer the same independence and excitement that moving cross-country or even to a nearby state may. The major advantage of moving out of state is the independence and adventure it offers.
Should you stay in State for college?
In reply to that: Even when hours away, staying in state usually means generally similar climate, similar culture, similar laws and customs. When so many other aspects of life are altered in a move to college, reliance on the familiar aspects of one’s home state can keep students grounded. That being said, staying in state for college has some drawbacks as well.
Should you move out for college?
The answer is: Even if you’re eager to move out for college and start your independent life, after a while the excitement will wear off and you’ll start feeling nostalgic for your life back home – you’ll miss the security and comfort of your home, the predictability of your old routine, the joy of being with loved ones…
Should you stay in your home state during college?
Response: Staying in your home state, even if you’re a few hours away from your hometown, still allows for relatively frequent visits, especially during breaks. Knowing family and friends are nearby affords comfort to many students who experiences pangs of homesickness or loneliness at college (read: nearly everyone!).
Should you move out of state or stay close to home?
For students seeking a totally new and immersive experience in college, staying close to home doesn’t offer the same independence and excitement that moving cross-country or even to a nearby state may. The major advantage of moving out of state is the independence and adventure it offers.
Should you live on campus?
Answer will be: Living on campus can be expensive choice. If you already have a room at home and are afforded decent amounts of independence and privacy there, you might consider saving some money by commuting to your classes rather than living on campus. The money that you save by living at home extends beyond housing costs as well.
