5 Essential Tips for Living on Your Own for the First Time
Moving out of your parents' house and into your own space, whether alone or with roommates, is an exciting milestone. However, the transition comes with challenges, from managing finances to maintaining healthy relationships with housemates. Here are key tips for living on your own for the first time (or at least without your parents).
1. Create a Realistic Budget
Living on your own might seem like the good life by definition — but your new freedom also comes with taking full responsibility for your expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, and personal costs. To avoid financial stress:
- List all your fixed expenses and estimate variable costs.
- Set aside money for emergencies and unexpected expenses.
- Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track your spending.
Many first-time renters underestimate hidden costs such as renter’s insurance, laundry use fees, and internet costs, so factor these into your budget.
2. Establish House Rules With Roommates
If you're moving in with roommates, setting clear expectations early can prevent conflicts. Key discussion points should include:
- Rent and other bill-splitting responsibilities (such as utilities).
- Cleaning schedules and shared chores.
- Guest policies and quiet hours.
Having open and honest conversations before conflicts arise goes a long way toward maintaining a harmonious living environment.
3. Learn Basic Home Maintenance and Safety
Being on your own means handling household tasks that parents might have previously managed. Your landlord will likely be responsible for major maintenance needs, but some essentials include:
- Learning how to fix minor plumbing and electrical issues, such as unclogging a sink or resetting a tripped breaker circuit.
- Knowing where the circuit breaker and water shut-off valves are.
- Keeping emergency contacts and tools handy.
When you move in, it’s also important to change the locks, secure windows, and have a first aid kit ready.
4. Respect Shared Spaces and Boundaries
If you have roommates, respect their privacy and shared spaces. Some ways to be a considerate roommate include:
- Keeping common areas tidy.
- Not borrowing personal items without asking.
- Communicating before hosting guests.
Simple acts of courtesy, such as doing your dishes promptly and respecting noise levels, can make co-living much smoother.
5. Maintain a Healthy Social and Personal Life
Living alone can be liberating, but it can also get lonely. To stay balanced:
- Make an effort to meet new people and maintain social connections.
- Create a routine that includes self-care and hobbies.
- Stay in touch with family and loved ones for emotional support.
Feeling at home in your new space also involves making it your own — decorate and organize it in a way that reflects your personality. However, be sure to ask your landlord before painting anything or punching nail holes in the walls!
Land on Your Feet in Life With On Point
On Point for College helps traditional and nontraditional students in the Central New York region overcome the barriers to higher education and careers. We support our students from application through graduation and beyond, empowering them to fulfill their dreams and achieve their potential, which ultimately benefits both the individuals and our community.
Our Education Services and Career Services teams provide a range of supportive resources designed to help On Point students and graduates find the right college or university, training program, job, and “life” things in between. Join us to get comprehensive assistance with achieving academic, professional, and personal success. Contact us today to learn how!
Ready to become a part of On Point for College? Fill out our new student interest form here.