In case you haven’t been converted to the idea of a rustic lifestyle just yet, today I have information on the benefits of rural living. The benefits of rural living go far beyond dealing with less traffic or noise. These benefits will, in fact, surprise you. Get ready to make a move to the country!

Define Rural Living

Rural living is the opposite of urban living. Urban means town or city, but rural is country. Rural living is living away from the hustle and bustle of busy city life, and much closer to the beauty of nature. It is true that there are some things you give up if you move from the city to the country, but only you can decide whether it’s right for you and your family. But it is definitely worth the consideration!

Benefits of Rural Living

1. More living, green things around equals less pollution to deal with. And not only dirty air, but the noise pollution too. A study done by the University of Michigan revealed that after spending only a few minutes on a busy and noisy city street, our brains are less able to control impulses or to retain information! The study also found that people who lived in apartments with only views of the concrete jungle around them had higher levels of aggression that people who live in apartments with views of trees. Talk about a surprising benefit!
2. How many city dwellers do you know who often complain that the bustle of the city makes them crazy? Or do you feel a little bit of that craziness yourself? It’s actually not so far-fetched. Another study showed that people in urban areas may be more likely to develop psychological disorders including depression and anxiety than those who live in the country. Make no mistake, there are benefits to city living, but if the city just wears on you personally, you might think about relocating.
3. It’s a fact that crime rates are lower in rural areas than in big cities. But don’t leave your doors unlocked, because rural dwellers are not immune from burglary.
4. Living in the country tends to cost less than living in a city. Home prices are lower, utility costs are lower, and food costs also tend to be lower. Plus, if you live in the country chances are you grow some of your own food. And that lowers costs even more.
5. It is no secret that the traffic is vastly better for rural living! Many people who move out of the big cities cite traffic as their top reason for getting out. Rural dwellers are more likely to get caught behind a tractor than a mile-long pileup!

If you decide that it’s for you, there’s no doubt that rural living has a lot of benefits for your pocketbook, your peace of mind, and your health.