Pros and Cons of Moving to the Country

Do you enjoy the vibrancy of city life, or do you dream of peace and quiet?

Are you fascinated by towering skyscrapers and bright neon lights, or do you prefer the open sky and gentle moonlight?

If you find yourself leaning toward the second option, it may be time to consider leaving the city behind and moving to the country.

For some, rural living may seem dull or isolating, but for others, it’s the perfect escape: cleaner air, more space, lower costs, and a closer connection to nature.

Still, before packing up, it’s important to look at both the advantages and disadvantages of life in the countryside.

This guide covers everything you need to know before making the move, so you can decide whether rural life is right for you.

Benefits of Moving to the Country

Living in the countryside offers a refreshing alternative to fast-paced urban life. Here are some of the top reasons people move to rural areas:

1. A Healthier Lifestyle

• Cleaner air: Rural areas typically have less pollution and more greenery. Studies show air quality in the country can reduce risks of asthma, allergies, and heart disease. (But research the area; some rural towns still have nearby factories.)
• Closeness to nature: Walking in forests, fields, or along rivers lowers stress and boosts mood. Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and gardening also keep you fit.
• Access to fresh, organic food: Farmers’ markets and local farms provide fresh produce, dairy, and meat. Many people even grow their own food, saving money while eating healthier.
• Reduced stress: Away from traffic jams and constant noise, your mental health benefits from a slower pace of life.

2. Less Stress and More Peace

The countryside offers:

• No sidewalk crushes. There is space all around you.
• A slower pace of life, with the opportunity to appreciate your surroundings.
• Lower noise and light pollution which improves sleep quality and overall well-being.
• Just looking out over the countryside will give you inner peace and serenity.

3. Higher Safety

• Crime rates are generally lower in rural communities. Neighbors often know one another, which creates a watchful, supportive environment.

4. More Affordable Living

• Housing costs: Rural homes are usually cheaper than the price of similar city properties.
• Lower taxes and utilities: Property taxes, insurance, and even groceries tend to cost less outside metropolitan areas.
• Savings potential: With fewer luxury temptations, it’s easier to avoid overspending.

5. More Space

• Bigger yards, larger homes, and room for hobbies, whether it’s gardening, a home workshop, or simply a safe place for kids and pets to play.

6. Friendlier Communities

• Many people report stronger social ties in rural areas. Neighbors are more likely to greet you, offer help, and invite you to local events.

You may also like to read: Moving Home After Retirement. Many people think about moving to the country after they retire. In this guide, we look at the pros and cons of moving in retirement.

Disadvantages of Moving to the Country

Rural life isn’t for everyone. Here are some challenges to consider:

1. Limited Job Opportunities

• Unless you work remotely or run your own business, finding a high-paying job may be difficult. Commuting to the nearest city might be necessary.

2. Limited Access to Healthcare

• Small towns often lack specialized medical facilities. Emergency care can be far away, which is important to consider if you or your family need regular treatment.
• Consider also the raised pollen levels, dusty air, and crop spraying if you have allergies or respiratory problems.

3. Fewer Educational Options

• Most rural areas have fewer schools and no nearby universities. Parents may need to plan for longer commutes or even homeschooling.

4. Lack of Entertainment and Convenience

• Limited dining, shopping, and nightlife options.
• Fewer cultural events like concerts, museums, or theaters.
• Stores and gas stations may close early, and food delivery services might not be available.
• It is unlikely that there is a local taxi or Uber service.
• Every errand will involve a car journey.

5. Internet and Infrastructure Challenges

• Intermittent or even no cell service and slower internet in many rural regions.
• Power outages may last longer after storms.
• Roads may be less maintained and impassable in heavy snow or floods.

6. Unique Risks

• Wildlife encounters: Bears, coyotes, snakes, or pests like termites and raccoons.
• Natural disasters: Forest fires, floods, and heavy snowstorms can disrupt daily life.
• Driving: You will swap the interstate congestion for being stuck behind slow-moving farm machinery. In the city, traffic accidents tend to be low-speed fender benders, but with less traffic around, people drive faster in rural areas, and consequently, accidents tend to be more serious.

7. Isolation

• Living far from family, friends, and events can lead to loneliness. Social opportunities may be limited unless you actively seek them out.
• Teenagers may particularly feel isolated, disconnected, and often bored.
• From school runs to friend meets up to going for a pint of milk, you will become the family taxi driver.

8. Hard Work

• Country living often requires more physical labor, like gardening, livestock care, snow shoveling, or wood chopping. Even daily tasks can be more demanding.
• Don’t underestimate the effort, time, and money that the extra home and garden maintenance will cost.

You may also like to read: Climate Migration. In this guide, we look at the types of places to move to avoid climate change and important considerations when moving home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to the Countryside

1. Is it cheaper to live in the country?

Yes, housing, taxes, and daily expenses are usually lower. However, commuting costs and limited services can offset some savings.

2. Can I work remotely from the countryside?

It depends on the area’s internet quality. Some rural areas now offer fiber-optic internet, but others may only have slower satellite connections.

3. Is rural living safe?

Generally, yes. Crime rates are lower, but rural areas may pose risks from wildlife or slower emergency response times, fewer emergency resources, and less CCTV, for example.

4. How do I prepare for moving to the country?

Visit potential areas first, check healthcare and school availability, test internet speeds, and budget for a reliable vehicle.

You may also like to read: How Does Moving Home Affect Children? One of your concerns about moving home may be the effect that it will have on your children. In this guide, we take a look at how moving home can affect a child’s development and behaviour.

Is Moving to the Country Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The pros, such as fresh air, space, affordability, and peace, are undeniable. But the cons, limited jobs, healthcare, and entertainment, can be deal-breakers for some.

If you’re considering the move, ask yourself:

• Do I have or can I create a stable income source here?
• Am I comfortable with slower internet and fewer conveniences?
• Will my family thrive in a quieter, more physically demanding lifestyle?

By weighing both sides carefully, you can make the decision that best fits your goals and values.

You may also like to read: My Partner Doesn’t Want to Move. Do you dream of living in the country, but your partner says no? In this guide, we look at ways to solve this very common dilemma.

Moving to the countryside can be life-changing. For those seeking peace, nature, and affordability, it’s a dream come true. For others who thrive on city energy and convenience, it may feel isolating.

Take time to visit rural areas, talk to locals, and carefully consider your lifestyle needs. If the trade-offs feel worth it, you may just find that country living offers the higher quality of life you’ve been searching for.

Good luck, and be sure to visit our home moving blog, which is packed with guides to make every aspect of your home move easier, cheaper, and safer.