Well, here is my story. I'm 22... live at home with mom and dad. I have two semesters left. I've enjoyed myself going out with lots of friends and doing lots of things, met a great (using term loosely) girlfriend and have had nice $$$ flow because of no rent or anything and being able to work/go to school/manage social life all at once. I'm glad I decided to stay home and do this, but it's not for everyone. My girlfriend went away her first year and said that the carefree fun of it all is something everyone should get to enjoy, but she doesn't miss or regret it. I'm in the same boat. I've got friends away at school who have a blast, but also have friends who have just as much fun going to local schools here and living on their own or with parents. It really wouldn't have been a big deal to me either way.