Everyone has their preferences of locations in which they would like to live. Some like the hustle of the city, others prefer family-driven suburbs — but there are many perks to living in a rural location that may outweigh the advantages of big city living. Here are five perks you should consider when deciding if life in a rural area fits your lifestyle.

1. Less Urgency

People in rural areas live at a slower pace. Because there is no need to hustle to beat the daily traffic and race against the clock, you are able to slow down and enjoy moments of peace. Life becomes less about making the appointment and more focused on what you can accomplish in the time between schedules. Less urgency does not mean less productivity; it is often the case that you are able to do more with yourself, learn skills and accomplish goals you never would have had time to do before.

2. Clean Air

Clean air is a big deal today, and there is plenty of it remaining in rural areas of the country. Fresh is not a concept, it is a way of life. Less industry and crowded highways means more big blue skies and bright stars for your daily enjoyment. Pollutants take away from the beauty of Earth in most large cities and suburbs. The country preserves nature and offers an unmatched quantity of clean air.

3. Peace of Mind

There are bad people and good people wherever you go, but many families are now leaving the cities and suburbs in search of a place that is safer for themselves and their children. Rural areas and small towns offer a greater peace of mind to residents. You know more people on a personal level and form great bonds with neighbors, offering added security. Country towns boast less reported crime and safer schools. People are free to go about their daily crimes with much less concern about becoming a victim to a violent crime.

4. Best of Both Worlds

Though living in a rural area means less immediate access to luxuries, it does not mean you have no access at all. Most small towns are only a short drive away from large cities that offer the cultural and retail experience some may crave. Living in a rural community means you have the luxury of leaving the rush for the safety and beauty of the country, but still are able to make a nice weekend trip to tour your favorite museums or see a highly anticipated concert. It is experiencing the best of both worlds while living a high quality of life.

5. Cost of Living

One of the biggest perks to rural life is the low cost of living. You have access to top quality markets, skilled technicians and retailers, all at much lower prices than you would find in the city. Homes on acreage can be purchased for the same amount as a small condo. Rural areas offer more bang for your buck.

Living in a small town is an enjoyable lifestyle that offers many advantages to city or suburban life. The safety, low cost of living and excellent air quality are just a few reasons why more and more people are leaving the rush of the city to relocate in the country. To find out more about the perks of living in a rural area, visit our buyer’s and seller’s page.