My gf and I just had this discussion the other day. In 2000, I had a 3 bed/ 2 bath apartment, car payment, full coverage insurance, cell phone bill, electricity bill, cable bill, plenty of food and beer in the fridge and could still go out on weekends. I was earning roughly $15 per hour at my job. Yes, the cost of living is stupid out of control.
Same here bud, but I graduated in 2009 recession. I lived with mom and dad for about 2 years until I had a job that allowed me a bit more income to find an apartment with a buddy. Its bad now, but here is to hoping inflation goes down soon. Sending you good vibes on getting a job that pays a living wage soon.