Independence is every teenager's dream. There are no rules, no curfews, and no arguments. It is a wonder that every teenager hasn't moved out of their parents' house.

But living on your own can be more stress than you would think.

Attleboro High School senior Erik Haaverson said he spends about $800 a month on bills, and that "keeping money around and balancing your paychecks" is a challenge.

"Put money away each week to pay for bills and food," said Haaverson, who also made it clear that it is important to pick the right person to share your living situation with.

There are positives when living free of parents, though. "I could do what I wanted," said Haaverson. AHS junior Ariel Denny agrees. When asked if she missed living with her parents she said, "Um, not really. We're better off now than we were."

Monthly bills the students described were: rent $500, groceries $200, heat $300, and cable $100. That would average to about $1,100. A 40-hour job at minimum wage is $1,280 a month before taxes, health care, and other deductions.

According to advertisements found on The Sun Chronicle Web site, just a single room, some with kitchen privileges, ranges anywhere from $400-$560 monthly.

A one bedroom apartment ranged from $675-$750 monthly, and a two bedroom apartment averaged $975.

If you aren't attached to privacy, try sharing a room with a complete stranger. Prices listed were between $480 and $640. These roommates were mostly seeking quiet non-smokers, with no pets.

Denny, who lives with her sister and her sister's boyfriend, comes up with her share of the money by renting out rooms in her house. She said there were more problems than expected when living on her own, such as stressful relationships. "There is a lot of fighting," said Denny.

Denny and Haaverson agree that living at home is tough, but offer advice.

"Make sure that you have a job, a plan for what you are going to do, and be careful. Don't get suckered," said Denny.

"Stay home, save your money," said Haaverson, who is now back home.