If you’re like most people, you’ve probably daydreamed a time or two about moving your family to an idyllic small town — and you may also think of this as little more than a pipe dream that has a next-to-no chance of ever coming true. However, moving to a small town isn’t as far-fetched as you may think, and there are plenty of good reasons for doing so. Here are just six of the many benefits of relocating to a small town.
1- A Slower Pace of Life
There’s no denying that the accelerated pace of life in an urban environment can cause stress and anxiety — and stepping out of the fast lane, even temporarily, brings a profound sense of relief to many people. Small towns don’t have the traffic, noise, and crowds found in their urban counterparts, resulting in more opportunities to simply slow down, decompress, and enjoy living in the present.
2- A Stronger Sense of Community
If you’re like most people living in a city, you barely know the first names of your neighbors — if you know them at all. Small-town residents get to know others in their community, resulting in greater engagement and connectivity. Whether it’s participating in local civic efforts, attending local events, or just providing a neighbor with a helping hand, the relationships and bonds you’ll form will provide a solid support system for you and your family.
3- Easy Access to Outdoor Activities
Small towns are typically surrounded by natural beauty in the form of forests, fields, mountains, and/or beaches. This makes it much more convenient for you and your family to spend time outdoors — if you’ve got children, you probably already know the value of getting them interested in healthy physical activities. You’ll likely find yourself spending more time enjoying outdoor pursuits instead of sitting indoors staring at a screen — and your quality of life will increase as a result.
4- A Lower Cost of Living
You probably already know that urban life can come with a very hefty price tag. Small towns, on the other hand, offer a lower cost of living, allowing you to stretch your budget further. If you’re seeking to save money and/or invest in your family’s future, the decreased costs associated with small-town life have the potential to make a significant difference.
5- A Safer Environment
Compared to large cities, small towns generally have lower crime rates — and the peace of mind gained from this can provide you and your family will a solid sense of security. The slower pace of life and smaller population contribute to this, making it easier to build trust with other community residents and with local authorities.
6- Improved Work-Life Balance
Those living in small towns are more likely to enjoy shorter commutes than their big city counterparts — and if you’re one of the increasing numbers of corporate employees who have the option of working remotely, living in a small town provides you with the best of both worlds, leading to a more fulfilling lifestyle where professional demands don’t supersede family life.