What age did you move out?

[dfrecore]

Went away to college at 17. Hated every minute of it. Quit school by 18 1/2, worked multiple jobs, got my own apartment in a not so great area (I did not care at all), and lived there until 23. Loved everything about living on my own, even working 2 or more jobs. And all of this while having a great relationship with my parents (always have). Nothing to do with them, everything to do with being independent. Would do it all again exactly the same way (actually, I'd probably quit school sooner - I was miserable).

I think my 16-yo will end up being home for longer, because it will take her longer to get through school and it's expensive to live here. She's a delight, so we are fine with it (actually, I'm pretty sure my husband would cry or try to stop her from driving away if she wanted to move out!!). She will work, go to school, and probably not be home much. My 14-yo is looking at ROTC programs, probably will go away to school and then be in the military as soon as he graduates - so he'll effectively "move out" at 18.