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This guide is going to take you step by step through how to move out at 18 with no money.
Considering moving out at 18?
It’s a big step in anyone’s life, but especially so when you’re so young. There’s only one problem: you’re not sure you’ve got enough money to make this leap.
When you’re young with no money, no car, and even no job, it can feel like your options are few.
Moving out at 18 with no money may be an intimidating prospect, but all hope is not lost.
Embarking on the journey of independence is a thrilling but often daunting venture, especially when you’re only 18 and have no money. But don’t fret; it’s entirely possible with some careful planning and persistence.
This guide is here to navigate you through the entire process – without relying on your parents, ruining relationships, or bankrupting yourself!
Is it realistic to move out at 18?
Moving out at 18 is realistic for some and challenging for others. Many young adults move out for college or work, while others might be eager to gain independence from their families.
If you’re considering taking this step, it’s essential to evaluate your finances, skills, and readiness to ensure your transition is smooth.
However, be reassured that the average age to move out of your parent’s home is between 24 and 27 – so if you’re not sure you’re ready yet, you’re already ahead of the curve even considering this move!
What do I need to consider before moving out at 18?
Before taking the plunge, consider:
- Your financial stability
- Support system (friends, mentors)
- Job or steady income
- Proximity to essential services like health care, groceries, and transportation
Don’t worry – we’ll cover all of these steps and more in this guide on moving out at 18 with no money.
What are the pros and cons of moving out at 18?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Gaining independence | – Financial strain |
| – Learning life skills early on | – Potential loneliness or homesickness |
| – Experiencing freedom and personal growth | – Learning to handle responsibilities |
Steps to Moving out at 18 with No Money
1. Make a Budget & Assess Your Finances
Understanding your financial standing is crucial. Begin by evaluating all your income sources, such as wages, allowances, or freelance gigs, and allocating each expense into a set budget category.
Using apps like Mint or YNAB can help you track daily, weekly, and monthly expenditures.
By spotting patterns and recurring expenses, you can identify areas where you might be overspending.
Over time, it’s important to revisit and tweak your budget to remain financially informed and prepared.
2. Get a Job
If you haven’t secured employment yet, dive into the job market. If you’re serious about moving out at 18, you need to be earning money to fund your lifestyle.
Platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn can be invaluable, as can networking through school counselors, mentors, or family friends. Initially, even part-time or intern positions can be beneficial.
They don’t just add to your pocket, but they also enhance your resume, giving you valuable experience that can lead to better opportunities in the future.
3. Start an Emergency Fund
Open a savings account exclusively for emergencies.
An emergency fund isn’t for splurges or daily expenses but for genuine unforeseen situations, such as medical emergencies or urgent car repairs.
Consistent contributions, even small ones, can accumulate over time, providing a financial cushion when most needed.
If you’re moving out at age 18 due to an unstable family situation and you don’t think you could go to your parents if you’re experiencing money troubles, an emergency fund is a must.
4. Start Paying Your Own Bills
Taking charge of your personal bills, whether it’s for your cell phone, gym membership, or online subscriptions, marks a significant step towards financial independence.
If you don’t already pay your own bills, start now.
Get an idea of whether or not you’re living in your means and how you’ll budget your money.
Regular bill payments teach financial discipline and lay the foundation for a solid credit history.
5. Research Where You’ll Live
Before taking the leap, it’s vital to research prospective housing. Tools like Apartments.com or Zillow can offer useful insights into accommodations that fit your budget.
When deciding on a location, factor in safety, transportation links, and nearby amenities.
Shared housing options, like roommates or hostels, can also significantly reduce your living costs.
6. Set Up A Savings Plan
Once you start earning, saving should become second nature.
By configuring your bank account to automatically transfer a portion of your income into savings, you remove the temptation of frivolous spending.
Look into exactly how much you should save here.
This automated system also ensures that your wealth grows consistently, helping you reach future financial goals faster.
When you don’t have much money, it can feel hard to set anything aside for the future – but the sooner you get into this habit, the better. Read about saving money on a low income.
7. Build Your Credit Score
A good credit score can open doors, especially when you’re looking to rent an apartment or apply for loans.
Even as young as 18, it’s sensible to start building a good credit score for the future.
Starting with a secured credit card, which requires a security deposit, is a beginner-friendly way to build credit.
However, the key lies in using it judiciously, paying off the full balance regularly, and keeping credit utilization low.
8. Side Hustle
For those eager to boost their income, side hustles can provide the necessary bump. Platforms like Fiverr or Upwork open up freelancing opportunities based on your skill set.
Alternatively, local opportunities such as babysitting or pet sitting might suit others. And if you’re digitally inclined, starting an online blog or a YouTube channel is an avenue worth exploring.
We’ve got a huge host of side hustles (linked above), including:
- Making money as a freelance writer
- Becoming a virtual assistant
- Starting your own niche affiliate site
- Become an online friend
9. Talk To Your Parents
If it’s appropriate for your circ*mstances, keep an open dialogue with your parents.
Things might not work out, or you might run into financial difficulty, and it’s always good to avoid arguments and fall outs where possible.
Discussing your plans, concerns, and aspirations with them can provide clarity and avoid any misunderstandings.
Moreover, in trying times, knowing you can lean on them for advice or temporary support can be extremely comforting.
10. Learn Frugal Habits
Embracing frugality doesn’t equate to a dull life. It’s about making smarter spending choices.
Opt for second-hand items when suitable, scout for the best deals, and embrace the DIY spirit where possible.
Over time, these habits can lead to significant savings.
Check out these 80+ eco-friendly frugal green living tips for some fun ways to save money while still looking out for the planet.
11. Determine Your Priorities
In the consumerist world, it’s vital to differentiate between ‘needs’ and ‘wants’. Before making any purchase, introspect.
Ask yourself whether it’s a necessary spend or a fleeting desire.
Such evaluations can prevent impulsive buying and promote better financial decisions.
Looking into minimalism can be transformational in this aspect – helping you decide what brings value to your life, and what is just adding to the clutter.
12. Learn Basic Housekeeping
Independence extends beyond just finances. As you prepare to live on your own, understanding basic house chores becomes crucial.
From cooking nutritious meals and keeping your living space tidy to managing minor repairs, these skills ensure a smoother transition to independent living.
13. Bonus Tip For Moving Out At 18 With No Money: Have A Clear Plan
Mapping out your future is invaluable.
Whether it’s financial milestones, career objectives, or personal growth goals, a clear plan offers direction.
Regularly revisit this plan, celebrate the milestones you’ve achieved, and recalibrate if necessary.
Remember, the journey is as important as the destination.
How much money should I have saved to move out at 18?
Ideally, you should have at least three months of living expenses saved. This gives you a safety buffer in case of unexpected challenges.
However, you will also need to consider other immediate costs involved with moving out, such as:
- A deposit for your property (if renting)
- Home insurance
- Moving costs
- Installation costs for wifi
- Acquiring any furniture you need
As you can quickly see, moving out isn’t a cost-free experience. Carefully calculate exactly what you’ll need to be paying out for an ensure you can afford it – ideally, you’ll still have savings left over after moving out, too.
How to Build Credit for Moving Out at 18?
1. Pay Your Own Bills
Timely payment of bills improves your creditworthiness. Make sure you’re never running late in paying your bills by setting up direct debits to automatically leave your bank account when they’re due.
2. Use a Credit Card (Strategically)
a) Pay on time: Late payments negatively impact your credit, so aim to repay your credit card balance every single month. This means you’re building your credit score without actually getting into any credit card debt.
b) Pay in full: Avoid accumulating debt. It can be tempting to dip into your credit when you’re running low on funds, but this is a slippery slope to building a dangerous relationship with debt.
Tips for Moving Out At 18 With No Money & Living on Your Own as a Young Adult/Teenager (On A Low Income)
1. Set A Clear Budget
One of the foundational steps for financial independence is establishing a solid budget.
Use apps or traditional pen and paper to track every dime you earn and spend.
Monthly reviews allow you to see where your money goes and adjust your habits accordingly.
A tight budget doesn’t just keep your finances in check; it offers peace of mind knowing you’re in control.
2. Split the Bills
Going solo on all expenses can be a heavy burden, especially at 18. That’s why sharing accommodation with roommates can be both economically and socially beneficial.
Dividing rent, utilities, and even grocery bills can substantially reduce individual expenses.
Plus, living with peers can be a comforting transition into adult life, providing mutual support and camaraderie.
3. Choose An Affordable Area
The allure of city centers with their bustling life can be tempting.
However, often, suburbs or areas a bit away from major commercial zones offer much more affordable housing options.
Research neighborhoods extensively, balancing cost with safety, transportation ease, and proximity to work or school.
4. Avoid Arguments & Burning Bridges
Living independently also means learning the art of relationship management. Whether with roommates, landlords, or neighbors, maintaining harmonious relationships can make your living situation much more comfortable.
Engaging in open communication, setting boundaries, and understanding shared responsibilities can prevent conflicts.
Remember, today’s roommate could be a lifelong friend or networking contact in the future.
5. Meal Plan
Eating out or last-minute grocery trips can quickly add up. Planning your meals a week in advance not only ensures a healthier diet but also leads to substantial savings.
By making a list and sticking to it, you avoid impulse purchases.
Additionally, bulk buying and looking for discounts can further slash food expenses.
6. Adopt Frugal Habits
Living frugally isn’t about depriving yourself, but rather making smart, conscious decisions.
This could be as simple as turning off lights when not in use, mending clothes instead of discarding them, or using public transport instead of taxis.
Over time, these habits compound, leading to considerable savings without compromising on quality of life.
Find out: what’s the difference between being frugal and stingy?
7. Plan For The Future
While immediate challenges might demand your attention now, it’s vital not to lose sight of your long-term objectives.
Whether it’s higher education, traveling, or investing in a property, having clear goals can keep you motivated.
Regularly setting aside a fraction of your income, no matter how small, towards these goals can make seemingly impossible dreams achievable over time.
How to Move Out at 18 with no money: Moving Checklist!
- Make a List of What You’ll Take
Before the moving chaos begins, sit down with a pen and paper (or a digital device) and list down all the items you currently own.This process will help you evaluate what’s essential and what you can sell, donate, or leave behind.
Remember, moving with fewer items not only reduces transportation costs but also simplifies the setup in your new place.
- Pack Your Things
Packing is more than just throwing things into boxes. Organize your items based on rooms or categories, like kitchenware, personal items, or clothes.This organization will make unpacking more manageable. Use bubble wrap for fragile items, and don’t forget to label every box.
It might also be beneficial to have an essentials box, containing items you’ll need immediately upon moving, like toiletries, some clothes, and important documents.
- Arrange Moving Plans
Depending on how much stuff you have and where you’re moving to, you might need to hire a moving company, rent a van, or just rely on friends and family.Get quotes from different movers to find an affordable yet reliable option.
If you’re on a tight budget, consider moving during off-peak times, as rates can be cheaper.
- Arrange Insurance
If you’re moving into an apartment or rented space, renter’s insurance is a must. It covers your belongings in case of theft, damage, or other unforeseen circ*mstances.It’s relatively inexpensive and offers peace of mind. If you already have an insurance policy, contact your provider to update your address and assess if your coverage needs any changes.
- Ensure Your Bills and Paperwork are Redirected
Contact all necessary institutions – your bank, workplace, subscription services, and any other place that sends you regular mail – and inform them about your move.Some might require an official change-of-address form, while others could update your info over the phone or online.
It’s also wise to set up mail forwarding with your post office to ensure you don’t miss out on essential letters or bills during the transition period.
- Label What Will Go Where
As you’re packing, visualize your new living space. Label boxes based not only on content but also on the room they belong to.This way, when you’re moving into your new place, you or your helpers will know exactly where each box should go, making the unpacking process smoother.
- Schedule Monthly Budget Meetings
Now that you’re on your own, financial responsibility becomes paramount.Set aside time each month to go over your budget, track expenses, and ensure you’re saving enough.
It’s also the perfect time to make any necessary adjustments to your spending habits. If you live with roommates, this is a good opportunity to discuss shared expenses and ensure everyone’s on the same page.
FAQ
Can you Move out at 18?
Yes, legally you can move out at 18 in most jurisdictions.
What age do most people move out?
It varies by culture and economic conditions, but between 24 and 27 is actually the most common.
How much money should I have saved before moving out?
Three months of expenses is a good baseline.
Do people move out when they are 18?
Yes, many do for various reasons including college, work, or personal choice.
How old do you have to be to move out?
In many places, 18 is the legal age of adulthood, so that’s when you can legally move out without parental consent.
At what age should you move out?
It’s a personal decision based on readiness, not a specific age.
How To Move Out At 18 with no money?
Plan, budget, save, and adopt frugal habits. Those are going to be the foundations of your success in moving out and actually successfully living alone.
Final Thoughts on How to Move Out At 18 with No Money
Moving out at 18 with no money is challenging, but with determination and a solid plan, it’s achievable.
Embrace the journey, learn from each experience, and remember that every hurdle is an opportunity for growth.
You’re on the path to becoming a resilient and independent individual. Best of luck!
