When envisioning your ideal home, do you find yourself dreaming of a charming farmhouse in the countryside or a sophisticated high-rise condo in a bustling metropolis? The choice between living in the country or the city carries distinct advantages. While rural living offers a lower cost of living, city life provides proximity to entertainment and job opportunities. If you find yourself torn between the allure of city living and the serenity of the countryside, or if you simply need guidance in selecting your ideal residence, consider these informative facts to help you make a confident decision—with the support of Crosscountry Mortgage, of course.
Contrasting Aspects: Country Living vs. City Living
The most prominent distinction between country and city life lies in the environment. The environment you choose significantly influences your lifestyle, daily activities, and overall well-being. Cities tend to be crowded, fast-paced, and more expensive, while rural living offers a more relaxed and less congested atmosphere at a lower cost. Financial and political differences also come into play.
Recent research reveals that individuals residing in the country are more likely to own their homes and vehicles, but less likely to possess retirement accounts, stocks, or mutual funds. Moreover, smaller rural communities tend to espouse conservative values and face challenges in raising funds for education and ensuring widespread internet access. Interestingly, as people age, the appeal of country living grows stronger, with the majority of individuals aged 55 and above expressing a preference for rural areas over cities. Historically, median total asset value has been higher for urban dwellers compared to their rural counterparts.
Living in a city can be costlier, depending on its size and location, with limited housing inventory that may necessitate exploring alternative financing options such as jumbo mortgages, particularly when purchasing your dream home in a major city like Crosscountry Mortgage.
It is crucial to remember that the superiority of one option over the other is subjective, as we all perceive the world through different lenses. To determine your ideal living environment, carefully consider these insights and how well they align with your desired lifestyle.
Choosing the Country Life: Advantages
Country living offers a plethora of benefits, extensively documented and backed by evidence. From ample space for pets to roam and acres for children to play, the advantages of rural living encompass fresh air and a strong sense of community, which are proven to enhance mental and physical well-being. Notably, homes are more affordable in the countryside, and so are living expenses such as utilities and groceries. However, it is crucial to weigh potential savings against the commuting costs associated with living farther from urban centers.
Living in the country provides more space, reduced pollution, and a stronger connection to nature. Nature's wonders are just outside your door, offering an unlimited supply of fresh air and room for various home projects. Streets are less crowded, stores are less congested, and finding parking becomes easier. In stark contrast to the noise and commotion of city life, the countryside offers tranquility, with the pleasant melodies of chirping birds, wildlife, and the soothing rustle of wind through the trees. For many people, this is one of the most significant advantages of living in the country.
Safety and privacy are also notable benefits of country living. Residents are less likely to fall victim to crime, and the strong community spirit fosters a sense of security, allowing children to play outside freely and everyday activities to be carried out without undue concern. Additionally, living in the country affords easier access to organic food, with fresh fruits, eggs, vegetables, and meat readily available from local sources. For those inclined, it is even possible to grow such produce themselves. In comparison, unprocessed foods are often harder to find and more expensive in the city.
Embracing the Urban Lifestyle: Advantages
If the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life resonates with you, living in the city has its own set of advantages. Whether it's access to superior education, enticing job prospects, or starting a family, the city offers a myriad of opportunities. Urban areas attract a diverse array of companies, resulting in a multitude of career options that cater to your passions. Moreover, the higher cost of living in cities often translates to higher salaries, providing financial motivation for pursuing your professional goals.
One of the benefits of city living is the chance to meet people from diverse backgrounds, offering a wealth of life experiences and fresh perspectives. While moving to a new neighborhood anywhere can introduce you to new faces, city living increases the likelihood of encountering individuals with unique perspectives and stories.
Culture and entertainment thrive in cities, presenting an array of options that surpass the offerings of small towns. Whether it's vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary experiences, captivating shows, iconic landmarks, or thrilling sports events, city dwellers are spoiled for choice. Additionally, public transportation networks in cities simplify commuting, offering cost-effective alternatives to owning a car. Trains, buses, taxis, and rideshares seamlessly connect urban destinations, providing convenient access to all corners of the city. For frequent flyers, living in the city offers added convenience, as most major cities boast well-connected transit options that link to airports.
The Suburbs: A Harmonious Blend
If you find yourself struggling to choose between country and city living, the suburbs present a viable third option. The suburbs strike a balance between urban and rural lifestyles, granting proximity to nature while still offering access to restaurants and shopping centers. However, it's important to note that the suburban lifestyle typically necessitates owning a car, as walking may not be a feasible option for most destinations. In recent years, suburban communities have experienced significant growth, driven by factors such as the global pandemic and the rise of remote work opportunities. The appeal of low-density areas and a departure from high-density urban environments have prompted many to seek solace and convenience in suburban living.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Regardless of whether you choose the country or the city as your ideal living environment, it is essential to obtain pre-approval before embarking on your homebuying journey. Reach out to your local Mortgage Advisor at Crosscountry Mortgage today, or explore our blog for additional insightful tips to guide you through the homebuying process.
Unsure if something will affect your loan approval process?
Let us know your concerns as soon as possible and we will answer your questions!