Most people overlook rural American communities, even though they have a bunch of benefits that city life just can’t match. Sure, big cities have endless entertainment & dining options—but the simplicity of rural life is so rich. Life in these areas involves different kinds of values that you won’t notice unless you live there. Let’s look at 10 reasons why living in rural America is way better than you think!
Featured Image Credit: ysbrand /Depositphotos.com.
Access to Local Foods
In rural areas, you can walk down to your local farmers’ market and pick up vegetables that were in the ground just yesterday. You get to enjoy fresh & tasty food while supporting the local economy. Beyond simply eating healthier, you also know where your food comes from—and the people who grow it.
Historical Sites and Preservation
Rural America has plenty of historical sites for you to explore, including old battlefields & historic homes. Sure, they’re great for tourists to visit—but they’re also a big part of community life here. Many residents take pride in preserving and sharing their history. They have a connection to the past you won’t find in more urban areas.
Less Crowded Schools
Schools in rural areas often have smaller class sizes, meaning that students receive more personalized attention. Teachers get to know each student and the students often form loyal groups. As such, this creates a more supportive & focused educational environment. Kids aren’t just a number in the system—that’s something we can all agree is great.
Opportunities for Entrepreneurship
The lower cost of living and the availability of space in rural areas give you the chance to create your own business much more easily than in the city. Whether it’s a farm-to-table restaurant or a bed & breakfast, you have the room to follow your entrepreneurial dreams. Even creating a craft shop is possible–and you have a supportive community behind you.
Safer Roads
As there are fewer cars on the road, driving in rural areas is usually safer & more enjoyable. After all, traffic jams are rare and you can often take scenic routes whenever you like. These make the journey as pleasant as the destination. Better yet, parking is hardly ever a problem for people out here!
Stronger Sense of Independence
Living in a rural area often forces you to rely on yourself more. For example, you might grow your own vegetables or do any home repairs yourself—either way, you develop a wide range of skills. Such a sense of self-reliance builds your confidence and creates an incredibly rewarding can-do attitude.
Generations of Knowledge
In rural communities, you’ll find families that have lived in the area for generations. They have local knowledge & traditions that they pass down through the years, such as the best fishing spots or how to grow the tastiest tomatoes. This shared wisdom connects people to their community and each other.
Space for Pets and Animals
Any animal lovers will love rural living because there’s plenty of space for dogs to run & cats to explore. You can even keep larger animals like horses or chickens! Rather than simply being pets, animals in rural areas are genuine companions that’ll help you with your daily tasks. Owning animals teaches you responsibility, too.
Learning Traditional Skills
Rural living gives you a chance to learn & master traditional skills that we’ve lost in the modern world. Canning and preserving food? That’s normal here. Basic carpentry and mechanics? You’ll know them like the back of your hand. Learning these skills helps you to be more sustainable while giving you a sense of accomplishment.
Seasonal Celebrations
Life in rural communities is closely tied to the seasons and each one has its own set of celebrations & activities. In spring, you might plant gardens & prepare for local fairs—in summer, you’ll have picnics and parades. During fall, you can take part in harvest festivals and in winter, you’ll have holiday markets to attend. It never gets boring!
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.