What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Rural Living?

Living in rural settings can certainly provide peace, quiet and serenity but puts inhabitants farther away from many basic services, including schools and auto repair shops. Those who live in the country often have greater space between their homes and those of their neighbors. However, there are fewer job opportunities in rural settings, and facilities such as schools, hospitals and shopping centers are generally farther away.

People searching for peaceful and calm settings, good star-gazing opportunities and the much-needed chance to get a good night’s sleep generally find the country conducive to their needs. Some people enjoy living in country settings because of lower housing prices and larger lots. Bigger properties provide more opportunities for growing gardens and planting flowers and even support economic activities such as farming and ranching. Rural living often gives people opportunities to keep and raise pets that they may not have had the pleasure of owning in the city, such as dogs, cats, sheep and horses. Having a home in the country often means that people have to drive farther to reach schools, hospitals and even basic amenities such as food and clothing.