If you’ve considered relocating from your city apartment to live in the countryside, you’re not alone. Americans have been opting for rural living in droves since the COVID-19 pandemic. The allure of country life stems from the rise of remote work and genuine appreciation for the tranquility rural towns offer. Join us as we delve into ways to make your rural relocation count.
Benefits of Rural Living
Living in America’s rural towns, though a stark contrast to life in the urban areas, is appealing for various reasons, including:
- A Relaxed Atmosphere: Unlike in the city, where everyone seems to be rushing somewhere with little time to spare, rural folks go about their daily activities at a moderate pace and have more time at their disposal to partake in the simple pleasures of life including playing exciting Ozwin casino games.
- Reduced Expenses: Perhaps the most notable feature of countryside living is the lower cost of living compared to city life. Everything from groceries to utilities is cheaper, and your money will do more for you.
- A Sense of Belonging: The communities in rural areas are often small and tightly knit as everyone knows each other and attends the same social facilities.
- Fosters Self Reliance: Getting the services of professionals like dentists, carpenters, and plumbers in the countryside will require you to drive for miles or book an appointment as they are fewer. Most rural dwellers have to learn DIY skills to save time and money.
- Better Security: Although most country folks own guns for their own security, there are fewer crimes in the rural areas than in the urban areas. This heightened sense of security is due to smaller populations who tend to know each other.
Preparing for the Move
Moving from a modern home in the city to a home in the countryside is a major decision. Getting everything right from the beginning will go a long way to ensure your transition is seamless and you can settle down in the shortest time possible. Here are some tips to help you out:
Choose an Ideal Location
When choosing your new community, make a list of your preferences to help with shortlisting the perfect area. Consider the kind of weather you like, access to social amenities, and proximity to other towns and cities. Do you prefer a small, lively town, or would you love to be surrounded by farmland?
Have a Budget
As with every other move, expect to spend a tidy sum. To avoid running short of funds before finding your footing in your new home, set aside a figure for the amount you expect your relocation will cost. Remember to consider unforeseen expenses, such as minor fixes you might need in your new home.
Think about Income Generation
Now that you’ll be moving away from the city, where finding a job is easier, think about what you’ll do to earn a living. Are you going to find a remote job, or do you intend to become a farmer? Whatever you decide, have in mind how much you expect to earn and whether it will be enough to sustain your envisioned lifestyle.
Decide on Property Type
The countryside offers many options when it comes to homes. Whether you need to rent or purchase a home will all depend on your ambitions and budget. If you plan to stay in the long term, then buying a home, though costly, offers better security. On the other hand, go with rental property if you need flexibility. Perhaps you might change your mind and go back to the city, after all, country life is not for everyone.
Adapting to Rural Infrastructure
Rural infrastructure can be basic and limited, unlike urban infrastructure, where the population might be spoilt for choice. Here are some aspects of rural infrastructure you will need to adapt to:
Car Ownership
If you don’t own a car, consider purchasing one before moving to the countryside. This is because public transportation is limited, and the terrain is a bit challenging in some areas. For unpaved roads, consider a four-wheel drive vehicle for better movement even in inclement weather.
Healthcare Facilities
Health institutions in rural areas are a crucial consideration. You need to be sure that you’ll find the assistance you need in case of illness or medical emergency. If you require specialized treatment or have to be regularly examined by a doctor for a preexisting condition, healthcare facilities should be at the top of your list.
School Options
For your school-going children, you might need to consider what the local public schools offer. Do they offer specialized programs or have enough students? Remember that if you’re not satisfied, you can explore other options like eLearning and homeschooling.
Power Outages
The countryside is not without its challenges, especially when it comes to power interruptions. These disruptions can result from inclement weather, equipment issues, high upgrade costs, and the vast stretches that power lines cover. Investing in power backup sources like generators and solar panels will ensure your lighting and appliances remain functional.
Internet Connectivity
Finding a reliable internet connection may be a challenge in many rural parts of America. This is largely because it makes no economic sense to install expensive broadband infrastructure in such areas with sparse populations. If you largely rely on the internet, you will need to opt for data sticks and Wi-Fi, which may not guarantee fast speeds.
Handling Isolation
Getting used to living in a rural setting can be challenging due to sparse populations, which can lead to one feeling secluded. Thankfully, the internet and mobile phones have bridged the gap between friends and loved ones. Stay in touch with your social circle to maintain a sense of belonging.
In addition, reach out to your neighbors and make new connections. Participating in local events, joining the local church, or volunteering when there’s an opportunity will endear you to more people and attract new acquaintances with shared similarities.
The transition from city life to rural living isn’t a walk in the park. However, with determination and the will to fit into your rural community, you can find fulfillment and open the doors to a more productive and happy life.
Last Updated on by The USA Tales Team
