City vs. Country: Your Choice for a Better Quality of Life

Choosing where to live has always been a highly personal and subjective decision. For most of my adult life, I've been torn between the hustle and bustle of city life and the tranquility of living in a rural area. Both have their perks and drawbacks. In this essay, I'll share my journey from a bustling Seattle apartment to a secluded Missouri estate, and discuss what I’ve found to be the better option for a good quality of life.

My Journey from City to Country

From my college years through my mid-30s, I resided in Seattle and its surrounding areas. I lived in a variety of apartments, both in shared housing and downtown settings. My life centered around the city until my 50th birthday, when I finally purchased a house in Kirkland, Washington. Although I enjoyed the conveniences of city life, the constant noise from the freeway, busses, and airplanes made it too stressful.

Considering these challenges, I decided to move to a rural environment during the pandemic. I desperately craved space, setting, and freedom from distractions and neighbors prying into each other's lives. My journey involved researching and visiting over 10,000 houses, eventually leading me to Missouri. The house I found was secluded and offered 3.5 acres with a stream, an indoor saltwater pool, and over a mile of wooded property.

City Life: Convenience and Challenges

While city dwellers enjoy numerous amenities such as restaurants, nightlife, and cultural activities, there are also significant drawbacks. In Seattle and Kirkland, I found myself spending extra time managing traffic, accounting for delays, and often choosing to eat at home rather than venture into the city center.

Convenience: Access to mass transit, restaurants, and cultural events. Challenges: Constant noise, traffic, and a fast-paced lifestyle.

Rural Life: Space, Seclusion, and Peacefulness

Rural living offers a peaceful and serene environment, free from the hustle and bustle and noise of the city. In Missouri, I found a secluded 3.5-acre property, miles from the nearest town. The outdoor features, including a stream, an indoor saltwater pool, and a mile of woods, allowed for a more relaxed and tranquil lifestyle. The seclusion meant that I could work and think more effectively without distractions.

Advantages: Quiet environment, seclusion, and a chance to work with less distraction. Disadvantages: Less access to immediate amenities and services.

Conclusion: The Right Choice for a Good Quality of Life

The choice between city and country living ultimately depends on personal preferences and needs. Both offer different lifestyles, with their respective benefits and drawbacks. Whether you prioritize the excitement and fast-paced lifestyle of the city or the peaceful and seclusion of rural areas, the key is to put in the effort to find the perfect spot that suits your lifestyle.

While city life may offer more conveniences, it often comes with higher stress levels and constant noise. On the other hand, rural areas provide seclusion, peace, and outdoor activities that enhance mental well-being. The importance lies in your personal quest to find that perfect balance that enhances your quality of life.

So, the answer to the question remains subjective. Whether you prefer the city or the country, the critical factor is to take the time to identify your needs and desires. This journey, although sometimes unsettling, can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the choice between city and rural living is a deeply personal one that requires careful consideration. It’s worth exploring different options to find the perfect spot that aligns with your lifestyle and values. My journey from the bustling city to the serene countryside has been an incredible adventure, and I believe that more people should take risks to find their ideal living situation.

If you're open to putting in the effort, the vast expanse of this country holds many amazing and unique places just waiting to be discovered. Embrace the adventure and the potential for a better quality of life.