With lifestyle and wellness more of a priority than ever before, a growing number of people are being drawn by the allure of open spaces, scenic surrounds, fresh air, and a slower pace of life, but rural living is different from city life and the transition to country living comes with its own set of challenges and surprises
So says Yael Geffen, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, who adds: “Moving from the city to the countryside can be a life-changing decision in many ways and most of them positive, but in order to make a smooth transition, it’s essential to understand what the key differences are and what the main challenges will be.”
“Whilst a country lifestyle is very appealing, especially for those who are able to work remotely or only need to go into the office a few times a month, city dwellers considering the move don’t always take into consideration the adjustments they will have to make in order to enjoy a more peaceful lifestyle and a closer connection to nature.”
Geffen shares the main factors that should be considered before making the move:
Lifestyle Changes
One of the most significant changes you'll experience is in your day-to-day lifestyle. City life is often fast-paced with a constant buzz of activity. In contrast, the countryside offers a slower, more laid-back way of life and whilst this can be a refreshing change, it can also feel isolating or even boring after a while if you're used to the convenience and variety of urban living.
Consider how you spend your time in the city - do you thrive on the availability of cultural events, dining options, and social activities? If so, the countryside might feel limiting. On the other hand, if you seldom go out and crave solitude, wide-open spaces, and outdoor activities like hiking or gardening, the rural lifestyle could be a perfect fit.
Access to Amenities
In the city, you're likely accustomed to having everything you need within walking distance or a short drive away. In the countryside, essential services like grocery stores, hospitals, and schools might be farther away so it’s crucial to research the availability and proximity of these amenities before deciding on a rural location.
Healthcare access is particularly important, especially if you’re older or have specific health needs. While cities often have a wide range of medical facilities and specialists, rural areas may only have small clinics or general practitioners, so you need to consider whether you're comfortable with having to travel for more extensive health care.
Transportation and Connectivity
Transportation is another major difference between city and rural living. In the city, public transportation is usually readily available, whilst rural areas typically require a car for almost every aspect of daily life. This can be a significant adjustment if you're used to relying on public transport, and it may also add to your expenses.
Internet connectivity is also a critical factor, especially for those working remotely. High-speed internet is a given in most cities, but rural areas can have slower speeds or limited availability so if you work from home or rely heavily on the internet, it’s essential to check the quality of the internet service in the area you're considering. You might also need to purchase printers and whatever other gadgets you need to work from home.
Cost of Living
One of the attractions of rural life is often the lower cost of living. Housing is typically more affordable, and you might get more space for your money. However, this isn't always the case, especially in popular or picturesque rural areas where demand drives up prices.
Additionally, while housing might be cheaper, other costs could increase. For example, you might spend more on transportation, and rural areas often have fewer options for shopping, leading to higher prices for some goods and services. It’s important to balance these factors when considering your budget.
Community and Social Life
Cities are known for their diversity and social opportunities, with a mix of people from various backgrounds and cultures. Rural communities tend to be smaller and more close-knit, which can be both a positive and a challenge.
On the one hand, moving to the countryside can provide a strong sense of community and belonging, especially if you’re interested in getting involved in local activities or groups. However, it can also be challenging if you're used to the anonymity and variety of social interactions in the city. It’s worth spending some time in your prospective new community to see if it feels like a good fit.
Employment Opportunities
Employment opportunities are generally more abundant and varied in cities, where industries and businesses are concentrated. In the countryside, job opportunities might be more limited, particularly in specialised fields. If you’re looking for new employment, research the job market in the area as some rural areas have growing industries or niche opportunities, but it’s essential to know what to expect before you move.
Home Maintenance and Self-Sufficiency
Homes in the countryside often require more maintenance than city apartments and you’ll probably need to be more hands-on. Many rural homes are older and may require regular upkeep. Additionally, services like plumbers, electricians, or general handymen may not be as readily available as they are in the city, so learning basic home maintenance skills is invaluable.
Once you have done your homework and are sure that it’s the right move for you, Geffen says that there are a number of things one can do to ensure a smooth transition:
- Try before you buy
Unless you’re moving to an area that you know really well, it’s advisable to spend at least six months in a rental property to really understand a place before committing to buying a home. A few miles either side can affect broadband speeds, planning decisions, school catchment areas and much more.
- Make connections
Knowing who to ask if your septic tank blocks up over the weekend will be invaluable. Friendships in the countryside often come not from shared interests or cultural backgrounds, but from necessity.
- Get the gear
It pays to invest in a decent pair of wellies, warm socks and a good outdoor jacket and pack the high heels away for special occasions. It’s true that there is no such thing as the wrong weather, just the wrong clothes.
- Get a decent set of wheels
For all the eco-appeal of country living, car travel is essential as there’s seldom reliable public transport and you might often travel on dirt roads so having a reliable car, which can cope with all-season travel, is essential.
- Be wary of buying too much land
Owning land means managing it and that gets more difficult the more land you have. Ride on mowers will work for between half an acre and around five acres, but for more than that, you’ll need a tractor. You can easily grow your own veg, plant a few fruit trees and keep a few chickens on a quarter of an acre.
“Moving from the city to the countryside can be a rewarding experience, offering a chance to reconnect with nature, enjoy a slower pace of life, and embrace new challenges, however, it’s essential to be well-prepared for the differences and potential difficulties.
“By thoroughly researching and preparing for these differences, you can make a smooth transition and fully enjoy the many benefits of country living,” says Geffen.
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