The “101”

It’s okay that you haven’t given much thought before to where you live. We use the term “living arrangement” because not all young people have a “home, sweet home.” Your living arrangement could be your family home, someone else’s home, your own apartment or house, a group facility for people with special needs, in state custody, or experiencing homelessness, a motel, a car, or an outdoor location like the woods or a campground.

You might not have a lot of choice, or autonomy, about where you live just now. That decision might be made by an adult responsible for your housing or holding control over you. Or, you may not have the resources to choose your ideal living arrangement.

Some things to pay attention to about where you live as you get more independence are whether the place is healthy and secure, and also if the neighborhood feels safe.

Where you live is an important component of your healthy future. People need a place to sleep, to store food, to keep their belongings, to study outside of school, to relax after work, and to keep out of harm’s way.

Learn more

Characteristics of a Healthy Living Arrangement A healthy living arrangement is one that is dry, clean, ventilated, contaminant-free, pest-free, safe for all dwellers (including babies, young children, older adults, and people with disabilities), maintained, and energy-efficient. Read about these eight healthy home elements.

Neighborhood Safety Tips Learn about staying safe in your neighborhood.