Well it depends. In my country (Germany) we have a good welfare, so it is totally possible to life without a job, should you desire to do so. It is not the best life, but you won't end up homeless so easily. But I get what you're saying. Working at a job and paying your rent and all that is a big responsibility and is limiting in some places. But it also is liberating. As you said, a lot of thing become your choice. While yes, you have more responsibilities after school, you also can choose what you do with it.
I mean, it's all perspective. Some people had wonderful school experiences. I am not one of those and am happy, that I can work at a job I chose, even though I am somewhat dependent on it.