So, I'm in a sticky situation, I'm in college right now, third year out of five (first year set me back), and I'm trying to keep it together. I would have already moved out of the house should rents have been reasonable in my area, yet Los Angeles (area) rents are through the roof.

How did you guys keep it together with your parent's constant fighting? I know they haven't explicitly told me, but I know divorce is inevitable. What makes matters worse, is that they're using me as a go-between, so I have to really step around eggshells around the house at least until I have my degree and can find work elsewhere: Yes, I am majoring in something worthwhile: Computer Information Systems.

An apartment around here that's decent would run about $1,500 a month, and even with a shared room for a two bedroom would run about $1,000. Average 2 bedroom apartments in my city (Irvine) are ridiculously expensive.

One more thing-how long should I stay here until I move out? My extended family recommends I save a year's supply of emergency funds, so maybe $20,000? What's tricky is that the house will be in my name anyways, and neither parent wants me to leave: I would stay if the situation at home wouldn't be as insane as it is.