Is country living vs. city living a big question for you too? Here’s what our real estate experts have to say.

Buying a house is arguably the biggest purchase one will ever make, and there are many things that we need to take into account before beginning a time-consuming house-hunt in a huge market. In narrowing down things like cost, bedrooms, bathrooms, our search definitely becomes more focused, but One thing potential homebuyers should think about when considering country living vs city living is which lifestyle will bring them the most joy? In deciding this, there are many factors to consider on both ends.

City Living

Living in the city comes with many advantages for all different types of home-buyers; whether you are looking for yourself, your family, or are downsizing after retirement, the appeal to a city dwelling is easy to see.

 

• Transportation and Shorter commutes.

 

With the use of reliable public transportation combined with the close proximity to various amenities within the community, commuting to work, home, school, or out for leisure activities is made accessible within the city. Additionally, shorter commutes may mean that walking to work is in the realm of possibility!

 

• Multiculturalism and Diversity

 

Living within the city brings about a diverse population of interesting people, events, festivals, food, and much more. If you take an interest in culture and enjoy being surrounded by and embracing diversity, the city is where it’s at.

 

• Food

 

By far one of the biggest upsides to living in the city is the dining options available for when you don’t feel like cooking, or just want to enjoy a night on the town. You can grab fast food, take-out, ethnic dishes, or enjoy fine-dining all within the city, and usually within your own neighbourhood. Food options are endless, delicious, and at a surplus.

 

• Entertainment

 

Whether you feel like hanging out at a local bar, watch a few stand up comics put on a good show, or a rock star captivates thousands of adoring fans, entertainment is never at a shortage in the city!

 

Is there a downside to City-Living?

While there are numerous advantages to living in the city, the noise and heavily populated areas can be off-putting for some. Additionally, things such as air quality, square-footage, and privacy might be harder to come by, often leaving home-buyers looking at more rural communities.

Country living

While it may seem quaint or idealistic, country living is being sought after by many home-buyers looking for a bigger space in smaller communities for a variety of different reasons.

 

• Peace and quiet

 

While some people don’t mind the sound of traffic on the streets at night, others prefer the sound of nothing but crickets in the fields. Living in the country does not come with the sounds of the city, it offers minimal traffic and distant neighbours, making for quiet time that is actually just that.

 

• Fresh air

 

With fewer vehicles blowing emissions in the air, coupled with an abundance of trees and greenery to keep things fresh, country air is definitely a factor for many potential home-buyers.

 

• Safety and Security

 

What coincides with less traffic and a more secluded area is a greater feeling of safety and security. In small communities, everybody knows everybody, and if something seems out of the ordinary, neighbours are usually pretty quick to pick up on it.

 

• Property and Square-Footage

 

While homes in the city tend to sit close together, country homes are on bigger lots, and generally provide more square-footage for your dollar. If you are a family looking for lots of space both inside and out, a home in the country might be worth a second look.

Is there a downside to Country Living?

While living in the country has many advantages in terms of space, fresh air, and a neighbourly small-town feel, there are many other factors to consider before making the move to rural. Lawn maintenance and snow removal may be time-consuming or costly, public transportation is not easily accessible, and often big chain stores that may offer cheaper prices aren’t found as close by. Additionally, things such as septic systems and wells can be costly and easily damaged if not cared for properly.

Ultimately, there are advantages and disadvantages to both country and city living, and whichever you choose will be based on personal preferences. If you are looking for space, fresh air, and do not mind the commute, you will likely find residential happiness in a more rural, country setting; if public transportation, close proximity, and multiculturalism are more your scene, comfort in urban city living could easily be achieved. Making a list of what is most important to you is a great way to get started; look beyond aesthetics and make sure your lifestyle is a good fit as well. Ultimately discussing this list with your realtor will be the biggest help in finding the house that you can make a home.

 

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