Movin' On Out

Dear Sugar
I am 19 and lately have been thinking about moving out of my family home into an apartment with a friend. Within the past couple months, my Mom and sister (younger) have been asking me why I am still living at home and when I am going to move out? My mom says that she's just joking with me, but it is starting to hurt my feelings. I work full time; I also have a second part time job, and go to school part time. I have been looking online at apartments in my area and I think I can afford one. On average, minus the rent, how much do utilities cost per month? Or should I just stick it out with the family until I graduate from College? Crushed and Confused!

Dear Crushed and Confused
It sounds like you are never home and all you need is a quiet place to study and get some rest. Do you want to move out or do you just feel like your Mom and sis are nudging you out? Also, if you are living at home, why are you working 2 jobs, and are only in school part time? If it's to pay for school, then maybe you should stay at home and save some money so it doesn't take forever to finish school. But, if it's getting bad at home and you do really want to leave, maybe you can get a roommate and save a little that way? It's certainly a wonderful feeling to finally move out of Mom's and live on your own. It's a rite of passage and it makes you feel independent and responsible. Utilities can range depending on phone, electric, cable, DSL, etc... In a small place they shouldn't be more than $100 but it really does depend on the size of your pad and what is included. Have a grown up discussion with your Mother and ask her what her feelings really are about this situation.