Would you rather live in the city or the country?
Is living in the city a convenient or an unhealthy lifestyle? What really makes the city better than the country, or what makes the country better than the city?
“Living comfortably means being able to cover basic needs and afford extras without straining your budget,” according to an article by U.S. News. One of the biggest factors influencing where people choose to live is the cost of living, which often differs significantly between cities and rural areas. It’s no secret that big cities are more expensive and can make it harder to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. In fact, according to Architectural Digest journalist Amelia Mularz, the most expensive city in the U.S. in 2024 is San Diego, California, with a median home price of $919,507 and a median monthly rent of $1,842. But is the higher cost of city living worth it when compared to the country?
Another major advantage of city living is access to entertainment and cultural opportunities. According to the Lincoln City Cultural Center, taking part in culture and being exposed to different forms of art helps broaden the ways in which you can express yourself. It opens up your way of thinking even if you’re not actively creating art. Culture is a positive benefit not only educationally and socially but also economically. Culture and entertainment attract visitors and businesses, which help create jobs and keep the city thriving.
According to a new report by the U.S. Census Bureau, 70% of the nation’s public transportation commuters live in one of the seven largest metropolitan areas. Big cities tend to have more public transportation, which also makes it easier for students and those on tight budgets to save on transportation costs. However, using public transportation can be stressful, especially if conditions are unsanitary. Reports of unsanitary conditions in the subway, including everything from feces and blood to garbage, are grossing out riders of New York City’s transit system, according to an article by NBC New York.
Green surroundings are also crucial when it comes to choosing where to live. A survey conducted by the School of Nursing at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University found that environmental attributes, such as access to parks, bicycle and walking trails, and the presence of green spaces, were positively correlated with better physical and psychological health. Studies have shown that living in greener environments promotes mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, while also encouraging outdoor activities that improve overall well-being. For many people, the availability of these spaces is a significant factor when deciding whether to live in the city or countryside.
Choosing between city and country living depends on a variety of factors, from the cost of living and access to entertainment, to transportation options and green spaces. While cities offer cultural, economic, and social benefits, they may come with higher costs and certain drawbacks, such as unsanitary public transport. On the other hand, the countryside often provides more affordable housing, access to nature, and a slower pace of life that can enhance well-being. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual priorities and lifestyle preferences.