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Posted on: Wednesday, August 11, 2021
City life vs country life - which is right for you? These two opposites bring with them two different ways of living. When looking at potential properties, it’s vital to consider where they’re located and if the location suits your individual preferences, tastes and needs. The hustle and bustle of the city contrasts greatly with the quiet retreat of the countryside, so this is not a decision that should be taken lightly!
When it comes to deciding between city life vs country life there are a number of things to consider. The two contrasting lifestyles offer varying levels of appeal to different people. For those that like to be in arms reach of places and people, the city is the place to be. Whereas some may prefer to escape to the comfort of the countryside, it all comes down to personal preference.
One of the most notable differences between city life and country life is the environment. City life is an extremely different environment to the rural living countryside, and those moving from a big city can often find themselves a little culture-shocked to say the least, and vice versa. Crowded and more fast-paced the city exudes excitement, whereas life in the countryside moves at a much slower peaceful pace.
Living in the city means that everything is on your doorstep, from supermarkets, shops, pharmacies you name it. Everywhere is at a walking distance, encouraging people to exercise and reduce their carbon footprint. Whereas the country, in its secluded nature and rural areas, typically requires a car in order to get anywhere.
Cities are densely populated meaning that you are constantly surrounded by people, and properties tend to be smaller, at no small cost, with limited garden space. However, with huge numbers of people opting for the city lifestyle there is a chance you're near to friends and family, making organising plans much easier. The countryside however offers larger rural properties and more extensive outdoor space, but may be nearly an hour away from friends and family.
Then levels of noise in the city and country also greatly vary. It’s safe to say that if you prefer peace and quiet, then big cities and they city life is not for you. The hustle and bustle of the city with it’s 24/7 traffic, chitter chatter in the street and busy restaurants may be comforting to some, but not everyone. Others may crave the luxury of peace and quiet and the fresh rural air that comes with country living.
When it comes to looking at properties, and you’re faced with the choice of living in the city or countryside, it can be hard to know where to start. Some crave the vibrancy and energy of city life, whereas others long for the peace and tranquility of country living. We’ve collated both the pros and cons of city living and country life to help you decide which one is best suited to you.
City life, renowned for its liveliness and non-stop nature, overflowing with opportunity is some peoples ideal lifestyle.
Shops, Restaurants and Other Facilities
Opting for urban living means that you’ll be surrounded by a diverse and extensive range of shops, restaurants, the city centre and other facilities. So one thing is for certain, you’ll never be bored or at a loss for things to do.
Transport Links
Being centrally located offers accessibility to extremely well connected transport links that run from the early hours. This can also save the need, both environmentally and financially, for a car, which is one expense you could go without.
Employment Opportunities
With a higher concentration of jobs, the city offers a range of employment opportunities. They also offer the chance to create a large network of contacts, making it a great place to excel in your career.
Expensive
City living comes at a much higher price when it comes to both renting or buying a property, as there is high demand for limited living spaces. The lifestyle is also on the pricier side, shopping and eating out… they’ll all come with a heftier price tag.
Pollution And Litter
It’s inevitable that heavily populated areas are going to suffer from greater amounts of pollution and litter. Air pollution, water pollution, sound pollution, you name it, the citys got it!
Congestion
More people means more cars and busier public transport. Congestion is a given when living in busy and heavily populated cities. Standstill traffic at rush hour and overcrowded public transport are the norm, so the quickest way you get places sometimes is by foot!
Find yourself daydreaming of rolling hills? For some the thought of living in the countryside is a dream come true, and a welcomed escape from the busy nature of urban life. However the remote and tranquil country lifestyle is not for everyone.
Less Pollution And Litter
The country is renowned for having less pollution, fewer cars and smaller numbers of factories than the city. You may get stuck behind a tractor or a herd of cows, but there won’t be any tedious rush hour traffic in the countryside. Making it a ‘breath of fresh air’ in comparison to the high pollution and little levels and standstill traffic in the city.
Community
The crowded nature of the city can sometimes make it hard to feel any sense of community. However with a lower population and a slower pace of life everyone seems to have time to get to know everyone in the countryside. You’ll be able to get your groceries from local businesses, fresh bread, fresh fruit and veg, you name it!
Scenery
One of the undeniable benefits of living in the countryside is its beauty! You’ll be surrounded by an abundance of idyllic scenery and stunning country walks to explore on the weekends. This enhanced countryside living, and the slow pace of life that accompanies it, can have a positive impact on wellbeing, improving your overall quality of life.
More Spacious
The countryside is sparsely populated compared to the city meaning properties and people are far more spaced out. This means that houses tend to be bigger with much larger gardens, making them perfect for those raising families.
Poor Transport Links
Unless you work nearby you’ll need to be prepared for long daily commutes to work and/or school. A car is also pretty much a necessity for those living out in the countryside, because although there are usually buses and trains these may not be regular and the train stop or bus shelter may be a drive away from your house. It’s beneficial to consider that although property prices, along with country lifestyle may be cheaper, you may end up spending this on your commute to work and driving to the supermarket.
Limited Facilities
Unlike the city, the country has a far more limited selection of facilities. Although there will be a supermarket and some local shops in a nearby village, they will be very limited and you may need to travel into the city to get certain things. If you don’t live in or near a village there’s a high chance that you’ll need to drive in order to get to any sort of shop.
Poor Signal
Living remotely comes with the issue of having poor signal. Poor phone connection and internet connection are a given, unlike in the city where you get 4G or wifi no matter where you are.
The Guild offers a stunning range of properties both in the city and countryside. So whatever your preference one of our Guild Members will be able to help you find the perfect property!
