Are you ready for a big move? Deciding where to live can be tricky, as it shapes your life pretty dramatically. Where you live decides how much you have to travel, how close your family and friends are, and what sort of amenities you get to take advantage of.
Some people are better suited to cities, whereas others prefer the quieter lifestyle of living in the countryside. There is no definitive ruling about which one is better – it’s all about personal preference. So, should you live in a city or not? Before making the move, consider the following things first.
The Cost
There is no denying that living in a big city is more expensive than smaller towns and villages. The rental price of a two-bed apartment in a city will likely be more costly than a family home in a quieter town. So, consider your budget and how much you are willing to spend.
Of course, there are other things to consider when taking cost into account, as moving too far out of a city may mean a longer and more expensive commute. There are also plenty of ways to save money when living in a city – for example, you can find cheap things to do in Bristol and other big UK cities that make living there much more feasible.
Your Job
Do you already have a job? If so, you must consider the proximity to the workplace. Living in a city generally means you’ll have an easier time getting to your job, especially if you work in an office in the centre. However, if you need to drive out of the city, be aware that the roads may be busy in the mornings and make your morning commute slower and more tedious.
Of course, if you are a remote worker, your job should not pose any issues regarding moving. The only thing you’ll need to consider is ensuring your new home has a suitable office space!
Transportation
Big cities offer seamless public transportation. Most cities in the UK have a good train and bus system, with some also having regular trams that get you from A to B in nearly an instant. On the other hand, smaller towns and villages might not have as much public transportation available, which can be tricky for those who do not drive. If you don’t have a car, a big city will work better for you.
How Close You Are to Friends and Family
Most people don’t want to live too far from the people they know and love. If living in a quieter town or a bigger city means leaving your loved ones behind, you might want to consider another location.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t live in a city, even if it’s far away from your loved ones. That’s because it’s typically easier to make new friends in cities thanks to the abundance of things to do. Plus, cities tend to have a more diverse range of individuals, so you are likely to find people you genuinely enjoy spending time with.
Career Prospects
Are you between jobs? Perhaps you’re hoping your move will open you up to more job prospects. In this case, you will have a much easier time finding a new career if you live in a big city, especially one like London or Bristol. The career prospects in cities are pretty much endless, so take that into account.
Your Lifestyle Preferences
What does your week usually look like? Are you someone who likes going out to bars often? Perhaps you’re more of a homebody or someone who likes enjoying a slice of nature at the weekend. These things are important when considering whether or not to live in a big city. If you like a bustling life with lots to do, a city will accommodate that. However, if you prefer a night in watching TV to going out on the town, you may prefer a quieter location.
Your Family
When moving alone, you don’t have much restraint on location options, as you can pick a place that suits you and only you. However, if you have a family, whether that’s a partner, three kids, or a pet dog, you’ll need to take their needs and wants into account before choosing between a big city and a small town. Considering things like schools, proximity to your partner’s work, and whether the area is good for pets is important. You don’t want to move your family somewhere they do not enjoy, after all.
