5 Practical Indicators You May Be Ready to Move Out

Probably the biggest consideration is likely whether or not you can pay the bills involved in having your own place. Do some research to see how you fare by pricing out apartments in your area and average utility bills. Talk to whomever you live with about what they spend for things like groceries and insurance.

Remember, though, that being able to pay the bills doesn't necessarily mean going it alone. One or more roommates can significantly reduce your expenses, as can being flexible about apartment style or location. Adjusting your plans to fit your income is a good sign of adult thinking.

Working people generally have one of two types of employment: a job or a career. A job is a way to pay the bills now, but it is often meant to be short term, and you may be at more of a risk for job loss and burnout. A career, though, has potential for bigger and better work as well as a direction to put your energies. It's long-term thinking.

A career doesn't just mean a corporate job or even a degree. You can build a career any way that fits your style — from a career as a barista to starting your own business or learning a skilled trade — so don't undervalue what you're doing with your skills. But do formulate a plan to look ahead and keep improving. As you plan, you can make smarter decisions for living situations.

Do you cook and clean up after yourself? Are you already doing your own laundry, cleaning the bathroom, and vacuuming? If not, are you ready to take up responsibility for these chores? Keeping an apartment clean and being able to feed yourself are vital on your own. While no one expects a young adult to be a perfect homemaker, develop the basics of a safe and sanitary life.  

Being independent is a lot of fun and freedom, but it also requires that you be willing and able to do the leg work of taking care of your own responsibilities. How well do you do this?

Think about how much you do for yourself already. Do you make and keep your own appointments? Do you pay things on time? Did you handle your own college registration, financial matters, and class concerns? If you don't know how to do something — like jury duty — do you ask for help and take on the work or do you want others to do it? While no one likes many of these tasks, they show you can take care of yourself.

Even if you don't earn a high income, you should have been able to set some money aside to get you started. Many experts recommend the equivalent of three to six months of basic expenses — rent, utilities, food, and gas — but your circumstances dictate the right amount. 

Having built a buffer is important not just in an economic way. It also shows you that you can plan for the future, that you know how to prioritize, and that you say no to yourself without others' help.

As you look at your own track record and what you're already doing, you will begin to see more clearly if you have the practical skills to take care of yourself and leave the nest. Start learning more about your living options today by visiting Meadowdale Apartments.