At one time or another, almost every adult considers leaving the rat race behind and escaping to the country. This thought may stem from a bad day at the office, a run-in with the neighbors, or simply from watching a movie that makes country life look idyllic. Of course, not everyone actually makes the move from the city or the suburbs to the wide-open spaces of the country, but if you are someone who is seriously considering a move, it’s important to do so with your eyes wide open.
Here are some things to think about—we’ll start with the reasons not to move to the country first:
It Can Get Lonely
As annoying as neighbors can be, you may find that you’ll miss them when they’re no longer there. In the country, people rarely just drop by for a visit and you can’t just walk over to someone’s house if you want to chat or need to borrow a cup of sugar. It takes a concerted effort in the country to get to know those nearest to you. Also, a night out on the town with friends is no longer as convenient, as driving into town from your country home takes more time.
The Job Prospects Can Be Slim
Unless you telecommute or don’t mind a long drive into work every day, it can be difficult to find a good-paying job in the country. Do your research before you move. Don’t just assume you’ll be able to find a job that will pay you what you’re used to making in the city.
You’re Responsible for More Upkeep
I would strongly advise anyone who isn’t handy to seriously reconsider moving to the country. With more property comes more things that can go wrong. And some of the things you’re used to making a phone call about to get fixed are now your responsibility. For example, you may be used to being on the city water and sewer system. If you have an issue with either, you call your local service provider, and they’ll send someone out to fix things—often at no cost to you. In the country, you are more likely to use your own well to get your water and have a septic tank for your sewer. If your water pump breaks or your septic tank overflows, it’s your responsibility to get it fixed, on your own dime. In addition, there’s usually not a hardware store or home improvement store around the corner.
If I haven’t already convinced you that moving to the country isn’t for you, keep reading. There are just as many great reasons to make the move:
More Space
There’s something great about having some elbow room around your home. You don’t look out your window and see right into your neighbor’s window (or vice versa), and you have the room to do some things you never could have dreamed of in the city or the suburbs. Want a huge garden? Go for it! How about a volleyball court or horseshoe pit? No problem. Like to collect toys like off-road vehicles, RVs, or boats? You can store them right on your own property.
Less Noise
If you’re someone who relishes peace and quiet, the country might be just the place for you. You don’t have to hear the noise of constant traffic or deal with your neighbor’s music/yelling/barking dog/etc. The sound of silence can be a beautiful thing!
You’ll Have More Opportunities to be Self-Sufficient
If self-sufficiency is something you aspire to, living in the country can afford you many great opportunities. You’ll have the space to grow a lot of your own food, as well as raise animals for meat, eggs, and/or milk. As previously mentioned, you will probably also use the water from your own property and have your own system for sewage. Get yourself some solar panels, and you could practically live off the grid if you wanted to!