From Dorm Life to Home Life – Moving Back in With Parents After College

January 18, 2023Moving Tips
Milly Andrews

Born and raised in Portland, Milly has had a lot of experience moving and writing about the relocation process.

Relocating from a dorm to your old home can be a major adjustment for recent graduates. Moving back in with parents after college presents its own unique challenges, from adjusting to a new routine to maintaining a positive relationship with family members. In this guide, we’ll provide helpful tips and insights to make the transition as smooth as possible, so you can focus on starting the next chapter of your life.

Reasons Why People Move Back in With Their Parents After College

Ah, the sweet smell of home cooking and the sound of your mom shouting at you to clean your room. Yes, folks, it’s that time again – when recent grads move back in with their parents. But fear not, for this isn’t a failure, but an opportunity! In fact, there are plenty of reasons to move back home after college – so let’s explore them.

Around 54% of young adults return home after they relocate for the first time

Financial Difficulties Are Strong Motivation

Why do people relocate back home? Financial difficulties can hit recent graduates hard, especially as they begin their careers and look to establish themselves in the workforce. With the high cost of living in many areas and the burden of student loans, it’s no wonder that relocating back home is a popular option for those looking to save money.

While it may not be the most glamorous choice, it can provide a much-needed safety net and a chance to build up savings for future endeavors. So don’t be ashamed if finances are the reason you’re headed back home – you’re not alone, and you’re taking a smart step toward financial stability.

Difficulty Finding a Job

After years of studying hard and earning a degree, the last thing anyone wants is to struggle to get a job. Unfortunately, in today’s competitive job market, it’s not uncommon for recent graduates to face difficulty finding employment. When job prospects are slim and bills are piling up, relocating to your old home can be a practical solution. It may not be the ideal situation, but it can provide a chance to regroup, network, and gain new skills while job searching.

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Pursuing Further Education

For some recent college graduates, the end of their undergraduate education is just the beginning of their academic journey. Pursuing further education, such as a master’s degree or professional certification, can be an excellent way to advance their careers and increase their earning potential. However, continuing education can also be costly, especially if the individual has already accumulated student debt. In this case, relocating back in with their parents instead of moving to a new home can provide financial support and a stable living situation while they pursue their academic goals.

Personal Circumstances Are Also a Legitimate Reason for Relocating to Your Hometown

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes personal circumstances can lead recent graduates to relocate back with their parents. This can include situations such as a family illness or a need to care for a younger sibling. It can also be a practical choice for individuals who are going through a difficult period, such as a breakup or a job loss. This kind of relocation can provide emotional support and a sense of stability during these challenging times. While it may not have been part of the original plan, sometimes you need to prioritize family and take care of personal needs.

Sisters hugging after cross-country moving
Personal reasons may include caring for a loved one or taking care of our own needs

Pros and Cons of Moving Back in With Parents After College

Relocating back with your parents is a decision that can be both exhilarating and terrifying since there are both pros and cons of returning to the nest. So, if you’re planning to start with relocation day preparation, let’s explore the ups and downs of deciding on this step.

Let’s Start With the Positive – What Are the Pros College Grads Living at Home Can Expect?

This type of relocation can seem like a step backward, but it can also offer many significant advantages. Living with parents after college can provide recent graduates with the resources they need to start their post-college lives on the right foot. Therefore, let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when you head back to the family home:

  • Cost savings – with student loans, entry-level salaries, and the high cost of living in the States, it can be challenging to make ends meet when relocating to a new city and starting to live on your own. Living at home can help alleviate some of these financial burdens, allowing grads to save money on rent, utilities, and other living expenses.
  • Support from family – after spending years away at school, it can be comforting to return to the familiar surroundings of home and receive emotional support from loved ones. Parents and siblings can offer advice, guidance, and a sense of security during a time of transition. It’s something you wouldn’t get after relocating to a new city alone.
  • Opportunity to regroup – the transition from college to the workforce can be overwhelming, and many graduates may feel unsure of what they want to do or where they want to go next. Living at home can provide a chance to take a breath, explore different options, and develop a plan for the future.

What Are the Negative Sides of Living With Parents After College?

While living at home can offer a variety of benefits, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There are certainly downsides to the “home sweet home” lifestyle – so let’s explore the not-so-fun side of organizing a relocation back home:

  • Lack of privacy – after enjoying the freedom of dorm life and apartment living, it can be difficult for college graduates moving back home to adjust to the constant presence of family members. From sharing a bathroom to dealing with nosy siblings, living at home can feel like a step back in terms of personal space and independence.
  • Difficulty adjusting to family dynamics – while it can be comforting to return to familiar surroundings, it can also be difficult to re-establish family roles and navigate shifting dynamics. Parents may continue to treat their adult children as if they are still in high school, or siblings may struggle to relate to each other as equals.
  • Negative perception from society – while it’s becoming more common for young adults to plan a move back home, there can still be a stigma attached to it. Society often views living with parents as a sign of failure or lack of independence, which can lead to feelings of shame or embarrassment.

Whether the pros of living with parents after college outweigh the cons depends on each individual’s unique situation and personal preferences. Ultimately, the decision to relocate back with parents after college should be based on careful consideration of both the pros and cons, as well as individual priorities and goals.

A woman writing cross-country moving tips in a notebook
By weighing the pros and cons, you'll be able to make an informed decision about the relocation

Tips for a Successful Transition Back Home

Whether it’s adjusting to family dynamics, finding your footing in the job market, or establishing a sense of independence, there are plenty of challenges that can arise when it’s time to relocate back home. But fear not, for with a bit of preparation and a positive attitude, it’s possible to make the transition back home a success. To help you further, we’ll offer some valuable relocation tips and insights for making a smooth and successful transition back home after college.

Communication With Parents Is Important for College Graduates Moving Back Home

One of the most important tips you should consider is clear and open communication with parents or other family members. This can help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts and establish a sense of mutual respect and understanding. By keeping the lines of communication open and honest, it’s possible to achieve a positive and supportive living situation that works for everyone involved.

Establishing Boundaries Is Another Essential Task

It’s important to communicate your needs and establish boundaries early on. This can include setting aside designated spaces for personal use, establishing specific times for socializing or spending time with family, and communicating your schedule and plans to avoid conflicts. It’s also important to establish boundaries around finances and other responsibilities to ensure that everyone is on the same page – not doing so would be a relocation mistake. If you need further advice on how to establish boundaries with your parents as an adult, take a look at the video below:

YouTube video

Contributing to Household Chores and Expenses

While relocating to your old home can provide financial stability, it’s important to remember that it’s still a shared living situation that requires everyone to pull their weight. This means contributing to household expenses such as groceries, utilities, and rent if applicable. It also means taking on household chores and responsibilities, such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry, as things to do after relocation to help ease the burden on parents or other family members.

Developing a Plan for the Future

While this type of move can provide you with stability and support, it’s important for college grads living at home to remember that it’s still a temporary living situation. Therefore, developing a plan for the future must be on your relocation to-do list, whether it’s finding a job, continuing education, or saving up for a future goal.

A girl working on a laptop
By developing a plan for the future, recent graduates can establish a sense of direction and purpose

Start the Transition by Hiring Reputable Moving Professionals and USA Auto Transport Company

Hiring movers and a reputable car shipping company can be a smart decision that will allow you to move efficiently after college. Remember – relocating can be a stressful and challenging process, especially if you’re moving to a different state from your current one.

By hiring experienced and trustworthy professionals, you can make your move easier and ensure that your belongings are packed and transported safely. Additionally, hiring a company with experience in shipping cars in the USA can help simplify the process of transporting your car from state to state. You can opt for enclosed auto transport or use an open trailer and decide between door-to-door auto transport and terminal-to-terminal car shipping to achieve a stress-free move.

By taking care of these logistical details ahead of time, you can free up the mental and emotional energy to focus on the personal and emotional aspects of the transition back home. And when the time for choosing a relocation company comes, go with a team that can help you move safely and provide you with all the car shipping and long-distance moving services you need – such as USA Auto Transport.

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After Successfully Navigating the Transition Back Home After College, Embrace the Next Chapter

Returning to the nest after college can be a challenging and sometimes stressful transition, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be a time of growth and new beginnings. Whether it’s pursuing a new career, continuing education, or exploring new interests and hobbies, the post-college years are a time of opportunity and growth.

By staying focused on personal goals and values, seeking out new experiences, and maintaining positive relationships with family and friends, recent graduates can create a fulfilling and rewarding post-college life. The next chapter of your life is waiting to be written, and it’s full of possibility and promise – so feel free to contact us as soon as possible and let us help you prepare for many relocation benefits that wait ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Back in With Parents After College

Is It Common for Recent College Graduates to Move Back in With Their Parents?

Yes, it is common for recent college graduates to move back in with their parents. According to a recent study, about 52% of young adults aged 18 to 29 in the United States live with one or both of their parents. This number has been increasing in recent years due to factors such as rising student debt and a challenging job market.

How Can I Make the Transition Back to Living With My Parents Smoother?

Here are some tips to make the transition back to living with your parents smoother:

  • Communicate with your parents about expectations and responsibilities.
  • Contribute to household chores and expenses.
  • Set boundaries and respect each other’s privacy.
  • Maintain open communication and work through conflicts calmly.
  • Pursue personal interests or hobbies to maintain independence and avoid boredom.

What Are Some Things to Consider Before Moving Back in With My Parents After College?

Before moving back in with your parents after college, here are some things to consider. For starters, consider your relationship with your parents and how it may change if you move back in. Your financial situation and how much you can contribute to household expenses.

You should also consider your career goals and job prospects in the area where your parents live. Your personal goals and how living with your parents may impact them. Consider your level of independence and how you will maintain it while living with your parents.
Another thing you should not forget is your parents’ expectations and rules for living under their roof. Your own emotional readiness to move back in with your parents. Any potential conflicts or challenges that may arise from moving back in with your parents.

How Can I Maintain My Independence While Living With My Parents After College?

Here are some tips to maintain your independence while living with your parents after college. Start by establishing boundaries and communicating your needs with your parents. Also, contribute to household chores and expenses. Find a part-time job or pursue volunteer work. Pursue personal interests or hobbies. Create a schedule and stick to it. And finally, respect your parents’ rules and expectations while maintaining your own values and beliefs.

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