Choosing where to live is an important decision. Whether you’re considering a bustling city, a peaceful village or somewhere in between, this guide can help you assess your options and make the right decision for you.
From practical considerations like commuting costs to lifestyle factors like community connections, we’ll cover the main pros and cons of living in a city vs a village or town.
Key factors to consider before deciding where to live
Whether it’s your daily lifestyle needs, family requirements or budget, there are a range of things you’ll need to consider when deciding where to live. Contemplate the following before you make your decision:
Transport links and commute times
Consider how you’ll get to work, school or visit family and friends. Cities typically offer public transport networks, while villages may require a car for most journeys. Factor in your daily commute times and the associated costs – longer journeys can impact both your budget and quality of life.
Schools and family needs
If you have children or are planning to start a family, research local schools and their performance ratings. Villages often have smaller, close-knit school communities, while cities may have more school choices, including specialist institutions. Consider childcare options, playgrounds and family-friendly activities in your chosen area.
Career and work opportunities
Your job and career goals play a big part in where you should live. Cities are great for career growth, with lots of different industries, networking opportunities and room for advancement. Rural areas may have fewer job opportunities, but remote working has changed this for many people. If you can work from home, you might enjoy a city salary with countryside living costs.
Lifestyle and interests
Think about what you enjoy doing in your spare time. If you love theatre, museums, diverse restaurants and busy nightlife, cities have plenty to offer. Village life suits those who prefer country walks, gardening, local community events and a quieter pace. Your personality matters too, as some people thrive in bustling environments, while others need peace to feel content.
Budget and housing availability
Property prices can vary dramatically between locations. Cities often cost more to live in but can offer higher salaries, while villages might be easier on your finances day-to-day. Research the area’s full financial picture, including the following costs:
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House prices or rent
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Council tax and utilities
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Daily expenses like food shopping, entertainment and eating out
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Services including healthcare, childcare and maintenance
Cities
With bustling streets, vibrant nightlife and plenty of entertainment options, cities can be an exciting place to live. Everything you need is usually close by, but city life isn’t for everyone. Below, we’ve devised some benefits and considerations of living in a city:
|
Benefits |
Considerations |
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Excellent transport links and infrastructure. |
Increased noise, congestion and pollution. |
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Strong job market with diverse career options. |
Higher cost of living and property prices. |
|
Plenty of entertainment options, including museums, cultural events and restaurants. |
A fast-paced lifestyle may feel overwhelming. |
|
Access to amenities, including top-tier schools or hospitals. |
Limited green space and access to nature. |
Villages
Villages vary widely. While some are small with few amenities, others can be larger, with bustling communities and plenty to offer. They’re an ideal place to live if you value peace, space and close-knit communities. Here are some things to consider:
|
Benefits |
Considerations |
|
Peaceful and quiet environment, offering the potential for a slower pace of life. |
Potentially limited amenities, including fewer shops and entertainment options. |
|
Access to nature and countryside walks. |
Longer commute times to work or school. |
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Low pollution levels and cleaner air. |
Fewer job opportunities locally. |
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Strong community spirit and neighbourly support. |
Less public transport available.
|
Towns
A town may offer you the ideal middle ground between living in a city vs a village. If you find a city too frantic but a village too quiet, a town lifestyle could be the perfect compromise. Consider the following:
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Benefits |
Considerations |
|
Good transport links, especially in towns near urban centres. |
Public transport may be less frequent than in cities. |
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Access to modern amenities, including shops and restaurants. |
Limited nightlife and cultural events compared to larger cities. |
|
More affordable housing and lower cost of living compared to cities. |
The job market may be smaller than in urban centres. |
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Access to nature and outdoor space. |
It can feel too busy or too quiet, depending on the town. |
Making your decision
Ultimately, your decision should depend on your individual circumstances and priorities. Young professionals might thrive in cities with career opportunities, while families may prefer the space and community feel of towns or villages. Consider visiting potential areas at different times and seasons to get a genuine feel for daily life.
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