17 if you count leaving for college, never if you factor I bought my mom's house from her.

17, The day I graduated from high school.

In for forum record at 33.

27 one month before getting married. I did go away to college then came back and worked 70 hours a week on nights. Paid off all college and saved enough to put 20% down on our first house. Because of that massive head start I retired at 55 and my wife just retired at 57.

Well left for college at 20, after doing 2 years community college. Graduated in 2009, into a terrible economy so moved back home. Worked at the grocery store for 10 cents over minimum wage ($8) so I was killing it while applying to all local LEOs for academy. Was told by many I don’t have life experience and to move out on my own, except a single bedroom apartment was about $1,200/mo, so basically my entire month salary before tax. Got into the academy, and leased an apartment short term for myself (even though I knew with my injuries graduating academy was unlikely). Dropped out of the academy and moved back home, and not long after got picked up in a civilian role and was completely independent at about 25.

20.

I left at 20 and was fortunate enough to never have to go back. My parents were great and would have let me come back home if I ever needed to, but I was lucky and have been on my own ever since.

Commuted to college so 22 when I purchased my first home and moved.

Off to college at 19. Lived at home for a few months after graduating then moved out for good.

At age 18....as soon as I graduated High School. It was expected and I couldn't wait!

Two months after I turned 19 and went to basic training for the USAF. I never went back.

17 years 10 months

18. Could NOT WAIT to get out. I had a pretty strict childhood. We were not allowed to watch much TV past some specials and sports. Did not even get a VCR until I was in like 11th grade in HS, cable came after I left.

Nowadays, kids just stay until they're 37 because theres no reason to want to get out on their own.

quote:

Originally posted by PASig:
Nowadays, kids just stay until they're 37 because theres no reason to want to get out on their own.

My son left for college at 18, came home for 3 months to work a full time IT job, then went back to school and lived off campus in an apt with roommates. He never moved back home. He is now 27 yo.

19. Not counting Boot Camp and Infantry Training School at age 18.

Lock N Load

Michael
USMC Ret

20. I moved into the house my girlfriend and I purchased together.

18, I love my folks, and they love me, but I enlisted and wasn't stationed anywhere near them for most of my career. Probably for the best.

I don't plan to kick the kids out of the nest, but also want to make sure they have their feet under themselves and are just sticking around as they are in college, etc., and it just makes sense for them to be here. Past a certain point, they'll have to move, as I am not staying in this state upon retirement.