Rural vs Urban: Personal Experiences and Preferences
The choice between rural and urban living is one that many people face at some point in their lives. Each lifestyle offers unique advantages and challenges that make it appealing to different individuals. Here, we explore the personal experiences and preferences of those living in various settings, including rural, urban, and suburban areas, and highlight the reasons why these locations are chosen.
Rural Living: A Closer Look
Decades spent in urban environments and 16 years in rural areas have shaped a strong preference towards the latter. For many who choose a rural lifestyle, the benefits are numerous. Living in a forest with a wood stove, solar well, and lagoon creates a fully self-sustainable environment. Growing an organic vegetable/herb garden and bartering for fresh produce with nearby neighbors adds to the sense of community and self-reliance. The lifestyle is not only more efficient but also healthier, with clean air, water, and plenty of rain. A healthy lifestyle with a BMI of 22 is maintained through regular exercise and preservation methods like canning and freezing for winter.
The nearest neighbor being only about 200 yards away adds to the sense of privacy and community. More importantly, the ease of access to medical services and stores within 20 miles alleviates any concerns about living in a remote location. This combination of factors makes rural living a highly desirable option for those seeking a simpler, healthier, and more self-sufficient lifestyle.
Urban Living: A World Apart
Urban living, on the other hand, offers a stark contrast to rural environments. For individuals who have grown up in rural settings, the transition to an urban lifestyle can be transformative. The author, for instance, grew up in a rural area that was rife with negative stereotypes: loneliness, boredom, emptiness, under-stimulation, small-mindedness, and a lack of diversity. These factors were enough to make the author crave an urban life, where there is less yard work, less driving, and more destinations within walking distance. Cities also get new technologies first, and the ambient background noise can be quite soothing.
The author’s first night in a city apartment was the best sleep they had ever had, thanks to the walkability and the ability to sleep in later. The support and community in the city, especially the multiculturalism and variety of places to visit, are significant advantages. However, the author acknowledges that this preference is not for everyone, and emphasizes that they have no issue with those who prefer rural life.
The Middle Ground: Suburban Settings
Some individuals may find the best of both worlds in suburban settings. A rural suburb of a big city, such as near Lawrence, Kansas, offers a mix of both lifestyles. Small towns are scattered within a short distance, providing access to jobs in nearby cities like Kansas City. With a big university in Lawrence, the area offers a thriving community with a variety of amenities. These small towns are cheaper and closer to many urban amenities, making them an attractive option for those who desire a more connected yet still quiet and self-sufficient lifestyle.
Suburban settings offer the best of both worlds, with the resources and amenities of a city close at hand, but with the charm and space of a small town. This blend of urban and rural elements makes it an ideal choice for individuals who value community and accessibility but also appreciate a quieter, more residential setting.
Ultimately, the choice between rural, urban, and suburban living comes down to individual preferences and personal priorities. Each lifestyle has its unique advantages and challenges, and what works for one person may not work for another. Whether it's the simplicity and self-sufficiency of rural living, the diversity and resources of urban living, or the balanced life of a suburban setting, the key is finding a place that aligns with one's values and lifestyle.
Conclusion
The debate between rural and urban living is a popular topic that resonates with many. Each setting offers unique advantages, and the choice depends on one's personal preferences, lifestyle, and priorities. Whether it's the self-sufficiency of rural life, the diversity of urban environments, or the balanced lifestyle of suburbs, the key is to choose the setting that best reflects one's values and enhances their overall quality of life.