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Moving to the Country? Pros and Cons of Living Rurally

Moving to the countryside is a big decision. It can mean you have less access to work and entertainment complexes, but it can also lead to a slower pace of living where you are more in touch with nature.

If you’re thinking about moving to the country, here are WPR’s list of pros and cons to consider before you make the move.

What are the Cons of Living Rurally?

1. Limited Work Opportunities

Many people view moving to the country as a retirement option, since job opportunities can be more limited than if you live in a city. If you’re not retiring, considering how you will get to work is an important factor about where you move to. Choosing a home near a train station may be best if you plan on commuting.

2. Access to Leisure and Entertainment

Many rural locations have an abundance of leisure facilities, but it’s unlikely they will be as close to your home as they would be in a city. Days out at the cinema, gym or shopping mall may require a much longer drive than you are used to.

3. Distance to Shops

Rural living still means you will have access to convenience stores. However, depending on where you move to, large supermarkets may be few and far between. You may need to drive long distances or rely on small local shops for your produce. If you prefer to get your food shopping delivered, it may also be more expensive.

4. Ease of Travel

Travelling around can be much more difficult in rural areas. Country lanes without pavements are common in many rural locations, so you may need to drive everywhere instead of relying on walking or public transport. The impact of this is particularly important to consider if you have children.

What are the Pros of Living Rurally?

1. Access to More Wildlife

Living rurally usually means you have more access to local nature reserves and forests. Plus, most homes in the country have gardens that are full of wildlife, so you can expect to share your garden with deer, badgers, rabbits, hedgehogs, foxes and other nearby wildlife.

2. Less Stress

City living is known to provide a more stressful environment for many people. Living rurally with greater access to nature, wildlife and the countryside is often associated with a slower pace of life and less stress.

3. Increased Privacy

Many homes in the countryside are more spaced out than homes in the city. Your nearest neighbour could be at the end of your street or another mile away, which can mean you have more privacy in your garden with no nearby houses overlooking yours.

4. Better Value for Money

Generally, properties in the countryside offer more for your money than a home in the city. Since rural living is considered ‘off the beaten track’, you can often live in a larger home with a bigger garden for a smaller budget.

Are You Thinking About a Countryside Move?

Moving home is a big decision and where is right for you is a huge part of that process. If you’re thinking about a countryside move, WPR are your local property experts. We can help talk you through the properties available and whether it’s the right move for you.

Get in touch today for a chat with our friendly team or send us an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to request a call back.