In recent years, young people have been leaving the hustle and bustle of city life for the peacefulness of living in the countryside. A great deal of our nation’s population resides in rural areas — an estimated 57.47 million people called these places home during the year 2020. This trend has caused an influx of younger workers to rural areas worldwide, which can be attributed to several factors. This article will discuss four reasons young workers are moving away from city life and towards a more rural lifestyle.
1. Cost of Living
One of the most attractive features that draw young people to rural areas is the lower cost of living compared to cities. The average price for housing, food, utilities, taxes, transportation, and other necessities are all much more affordable in rural towns than they are in urban centers. This lower cost of living makes it easier for young people to live comfortably, even on smaller incomes.
Lower costs for necessities and rent mean more expendable income for other needs and wants. Rural areas offer a lower cost of living, allowing young people to save more money, which they can use later in life. In addition, rural towns tend to have fewer local taxes than larger cities, making the overall tax burden much lighter on residents. For those looking to start a business, the lower costs for supplies, rent, and other overhead expenses can make all the difference in profitability.
In addition to basic needs such as housing and utilities being more affordable in rural areas, there are also numerous recreational activities available at much lower prices than in cities. Rural towns offer plenty of entertainment options, from swimming pools and tennis courts to public parks and golf courses, while keeping costs low. Rural areas also tend to have a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and fishing, that you can enjoy for free or at a minimal cost.
2. Quality of Life
Not only can rural areas offer a more affordable standard of living, but they also provide a higher quality of life in many ways. From access to fresh air and wide open spaces to the slower pace and less crowded streets, the countryside has an abundance of features that make it appealing to young workers looking to escape city living.
Rural life is also often associated with a healthier lifestyle and higher happiness levels. Studies have suggested that those living in rural areas report better mental health as they benefit from access to a more natural environment. Furthermore, work-life balance tends to be improved in rural settings since less time and money are spent commuting, and you can spend more time with family and friends. The slower pace of life also allows rural dwellers to relax and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.
Additionally, rural areas tend to have more community gatherings than their urban counterparts. This leads to greater social interaction and a more connected community, which can result in increased feelings of belonging and self-worth. This is especially important for young people who have moved away from their families, as it helps them build strong social support systems to rely on during difficult times.
3. Employment Opportunities
With more and more people moving to rural areas, job prospects in the countryside have grown significantly over the past few years. Many young workers are drawn to these areas because of the ability to find good jobs at competitive wages. Additionally, with fewer people competing for positions in rural towns, it is easier for young workers to stand out from their competition and land a desirable job.
The jobs available in rural areas range from manual labor to professional positions. Agriculture-related jobs are often plentiful in these areas, but many businesses require office workers, salespeople, and other skilled professionals. Many rural towns also have hospitals and clinics that need medical personnel, such as nurses and lab technicians.
In addition to the usual job opportunities found in urban areas, rural towns often offer unique employment opportunities. For instance, many communities use volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel who local fire departments employ. Similarly, some rural towns also provide jobs as animal control officers, game wardens, or forest rangers.
4. Property Cost
Finally, purchasing a home or property in rural areas tends to be much lower than buying in cities. This makes it easier for young people to climb the property ladder and build wealth. The cost of property in rural areas can be further reduced with the help of a USDA mortgage. These government-backed loans are available to qualified buyers purchasing a home in an eligible rural area, and they offer competitive interest rates and more flexible loan terms than traditional mortgages.
A USDA mortgage is also an ideal choice for first-time homebuyers, as it does not require a down payment and only requires a few minor closing costs. Furthermore, those with lower incomes or credit scores may qualify for an even better deal on the mortgage, so these loans can be especially beneficial for young buyers trying to break into the property market.
In Summary
These four reasons demonstrate why more and more young people are choosing to leave city life behind and move to the countryside. The availability of affordable housing, quality of life, accessibility to leisure activities, employment opportunities, and low cost of purchasing a piece of land makes living in rural towns an attractive option for those looking for a change of pace from urban living. Whether you’re drawn to fresh air and wide open spaces, or want to save money on your day-to-day expenses, moving from city life to the countryside can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
