How to Afford Moving Out of Your Parents' Home on a Tight Budget

So you're finally ready to move out, but you're not exactly swimming in cash. Rent is a huge expense, and you might need some help paying for it. Perhaps living in a ghetto is an option, but finding a roommate to share this extra financial burden with is the better choice in my opinion. Search carefully though, as you don't want to be stuck with someone unreliable or hard to live with. If you don't have a candidate in mind already, there are many sources that can help. Such resources are Facebook, Myspace, Craigslist, and message boards at your job or possibly college.

2. Find an alternate income source.

Perhaps an extra part time job would suit your needs if you are really hurting for cash. Mowing lawns, babysitting, and waving signs are some options to consider. Also consider searching craigslist for opportunities if you are in a big city. There are many great offers on there, but you have to watch out for the scams. If something seems too good to be true then there is a pretty good chance it is.

3. Cook your own meals.

This is a huge money saver if you are willing to do it. Cooking my own meals saves me hundreds of dollars per month, and it is much healthier than eating fast food. You don't have to live off ramen noodles and macaroni and cheese. Learn to cook actual meals, and you will save money and learn a new skill in the process. Some easy meals examples that I make regularly are: tacos, fried rice, potato soup, spaghetti, salads, baked potatoes, and many other foods. Those are all easy to prepare and are well worth making for the money it will save you.

4. Buy cheaper clothes.

Is that 80 dollar pair of jeans really worth it? I buy all of my clothes on eBay and from thrift stores, and quite a bit of money can be saved. Outlet stores are another great place to search when looking for cheap clothes. Be sure to inspect the quality of the clothing before you buy it though to make sure nothing is wrong with it. I have gotten phenomenal deals on clothing at both outlet and thrift stores.

5. Cut your own hair

I'm a guy, so I don't know how this would appeal to women, but cutting your own hair is easier than you may think. I took the plunge into this idea for the first time last week. You can give yourself professional looking haircuts for free, and all you need is a relatively cheap haircutting kit. I bought a Wahl personal haircutting kit for 27 dollars with free shipping on Amazon, and didn't know if it would look good or hideous. I was pleasantly surprised with the results. I had a haircut that was as good as any professional I ever received, and I did it myself at my convenience. I even received compliments from people that didn't know I had done it myself, so paying for haircuts is no longer in my future.

Conclusion

When all these techniques are combined, you will be saving more money that you realize, and it isn't that big of a sacrifice. Instead of being up to your eyeballs in debt, you will be able to live comfortably, and even put some money in the old savings account.