Finances are a major reason students stay at home. Students who live on campus, or even in an apartment, can spend a lot of money for living experiences. Students who live on campus must pay for their dorm rooms, food and necessities. Even if a student pays for his rent and food while living at home, those costs can be lower than a campus dorm plan.
A college student can gradually take on many of the adult responsibilities at a slower pace than one who lives on campus. By living at home, college students can avoid taking on so many of adulthood's responsibilities at once. Having family members around can help provide guidance and advice for dealing with new-found adult responsibilities. Family members can also help guide students to avoid financial mistakes such as credit card debt.
Some college students may find the experience of being away from home to be an emotional shock. They may find themselves separated from friends and family members and end up isolated. Living at home can help prevent such isolation, with family members continuing to give emotional support during college. Family members and nearby friends can also watch for any problems such as depression that may be missed with students living on campus.
A student who lives on campus may have to deal with noisy roommates, a lack of computer access or even an inability to find a quiet study room. A live-at-home student can set up a preferred study area that works best for her study needs.