Things No One Tells You About Moving Out

• Chris The Grad
• 0 Comments
• May 24, 2025

By: Chris the Graduate

Moving out for the first time, especially as a student, can feel like a big leap into adulthood. It’s exciting, full of freedom, and often something we look forward to for years. But once the boxes are unpacked and the door closes behind you, reality sets in.

Living on your own while balancing classes, maybe a job, and life in general? It’s not always as smooth as it looks on TikTok or in movies. Here are the things no one tells you about moving out as a student, and how to prepare for them.

1. Living Costs Add Up Fast Even in Student Housing

As a student, you might think that rent or your dorm fee is the only major expense. But once you move out, you’ll quickly notice how many other costs sneak in groceries, laundry detergent, toiletries, snacks, and school supplies. If you’re in an apartment, add internet, electricity, and maybe even parking fees to that list. You’ll also run into unexpected expenses: a broken phone charger, a flat tire, or a last-minute textbook purchase. These small things can throw off your whole budget if you’re not ready. Track your spending, even if you think you don’t spend much. Apps like Mint or a simple spreadsheet can help. Always leave room in your budget for emergencies.

2. You Might Miss Home More Than You Expected

Being away from home can feel great at first. No curfew, no one telling you to clean your room, and freedom to do what you want. But after the excitement wears off, you might start to miss things like family dinners, your bed, or having someone around when you’re stressed.

College can feel overwhelming, and having to handle everything alone can bring on unexpected homesickness, even if you thought you were ready. Stay connected with home through calls or video chats. Create routines that give you comfort, like a weekly treat or watching your favorite show at the same time every week.

3. Roommate Life Isn’t Always Easy

If you’re not living alone, you’re likely sharing space with at least one roommate. Living with others brings challenges, different sleep schedules, study habits, hygiene standards, or even clashing personalities. Sometimes, people just don’t get along. It can be a learning curve to set boundaries, resolve issues maturely, and communicate without turning small problems into big ones. Set ground rules early. Talk about things like noise, guests, cleaning responsibilities, and sharing items. The earlier you get on the same page, the smoother things go.

4. Managing Your Own Time Is Harder Than It Sounds

In high school, your schedule is pretty structured. But in college or student life, you’re often in charge of your time, and that freedom can backfire if you’re not careful. It’s easy to skip class, procrastinate assignments, or stay up way too late binge-watching shows. There’s no one reminding you to study or go to bed early. You’re in charge now. Use a planner, calendar app, or to-do list. Block out study time and stick to it. Keep a sleep schedule that helps you function, not one that leaves you exhausted during your 8 a.m. class.

5. You’ll Gain Independence by Making Mistakes

You will mess up. Maybe you’ll forget to pay rent on time, run out of clean clothes, or eat ramen noodles for three days straight. That’s all part of the process. Moving out teaches you things school never did—how to take care of yourself, how to be responsible with money, and how to keep going when things don’t go smoothly. It’s not always fun, but these small challenges help you grow into someone who can handle real-world problems. Don’t be afraid to fail. Each mistake teaches you something. Learn from it and keep moving forward.

6. You Start Becoming Your Person

One of the most beautiful parts of moving out as a student is discovering who you are, outside of your family, your high school, or your hometown. You’ll start forming your values, habits, and goals. You’ll meet people from different backgrounds and figure out what you want in friendships, careers, and even relationships. It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

Moving out as a student is a major milestone. It can be tough, messy, and unpredictable—but it’s also one of the most important learning experiences you’ll ever have. You’ll discover strengths you didn’t know you had, make new connections, and slowly build a life that’s truly your own. You don’t have to have everything figured out. Just show up, keep trying, and ask for help when you need it. You’ve got this.