The month of May is college graduation season, but not every new grad is excited about this next chapter of life which is supposed to include a full-time job and solo living. According to Time Magazine Online, a recent study shows a whopping 85% of the Class of 2011 are moving back in with their parents due to the slumped economy.
We’ve stumbled upon a controversial subject regarding these “boomerang children” who’ve ventured off into the world only to return again – should they pay rent like all other responsible adults? Or should living at home always be a free ride -- isn't that what family is for?
We asked a small group of folks what their take is on the topic and here’s what we found:
“Five months ago I quit my job to focus more on my passion – I want to be a writer. My mom was so thrilled I’d be back at the house that money never was even a topic with my parents. [My mom] cooks, does my laundry…it’s like I’m a kid again…but don’t get me wrong; I’m not spoiled. I don’t ‘expect’ her to do all of this. I appreciate the help because I can focus more on my writing career and save a ton of money.” – Matt, 28, NYC
“I don’t agree with full blown ‘rent’, but if you live at home you should contribute something. Maybe you help out by cooking or cleaning so your parents don’t have to. Or picking up groceries or something. But if you’re not contributing anything to the household then you’re just a freeloader.” – Justin, 27, DC
“I could never, ever, ever imagine asking my kids to pay me to live at home. Isn’t the whole point them of moving back to save money?” – Dina, 54, MA
“My parents have a small guest house in the backyard. So when I moved back in I paid a discounted rent – but it was basically like having my own apartment so it made sense.” – Nikole, 24, CA
“Ummm…if you have a roof over your head, and food on the table, and a free laundry room, and free cable, and internet, and a shower with hot water, and a bed, why exactly would you not think you need to pay money for it all? Are they not using all of the things the parents have to pay for? Plus, I have a life. I’ve raised my children already – it’s an inconvenience. What if I wanna walk around naked?! I’ve earned that right and I’m not about to give it up for free. If you have a job, you pay rent. Period.” – Bettie, 65, MA (mother of seven children whom have all paid her rent at some point)
What about you? Are you part of the 85% of grads moving back home? Will you be expected to pay your way? Are you a parent with an opinion on rent-paying children? Let us know in the comment section below!
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Images: Step Brothers, t-shirt
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