Is it better to move far away for university, and escape a less than ideal family situation, but still be tethered financially to your parent(s), or live in the same city but have more control over your life/finances/goals?
Obviously option #1 could conceivably save you lots of money, and help you escape a less than ideal family situation if you don’t want to be around them but then you might still be tied to your parent or parents until you hit 22. This could be bad for your confidence, especially if you already have insecurities.
Option #2 would let you move out at age 18 and have control over your goals and living situation. If you are not reckless this could be a great option. Downsides are costs.
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Wouldn’t option 1 be better for your finances?
With that, I’d take option 3. Live with parents, go to school locally.
You’d save so much assuming they let you stay for free.
Which do you need the most
If you’re trying to escape a less than ideal family situation I’d say get the hell out. Plus experiencing another area of the world is always good.
I’d almost always be in favor of moving away from where you grew up and experiencing a new environment. And you’ll be financially “tethered” but it’s not like your parents can boss you around if you live hours away. You could even get a side job and start saving for when you graduate.
Unless you have a very definite plan or a free ride, skip college until you are older & can pay. Whether or not you are near to your parents depends on how controlling they are in your life.
I personally think it’s better to get away completely for school and have complete independence for the first time in your life (besides financial)
Depends on your relationship with your parents. I can only tell you my experience.
I chose to move away for school. I had to speak to my university and warn them not to let my parents directly access my financial account information. I needed to take student loans, but it was helpful to have a small allowance from my father as well, until I was able to manage things myself. The freedom from not being in my parents’ house was life-changing.