The biggest changes when moving from the city
While the hustle and energy of city living is fun while you’re young, things start to change as you get older. Whether you’re starting a family or just looking for a change of pace, there’s a lot to like about moving out of the city. But as with any big change, there can also be a lot of adjustments to your new life and routine. We break down the biggest changes you can expect when moving out of the city.
You’re driving…everywhere
In the city, running out for some last-minute groceries might mean walking around the corner or hopping on your bike. But in the suburbs, getting just about anywhere requires strapping on that seat belt and logging some time behind the wheel. Traffic around rush hour (especially to the local cluster of big box stores) can be brutal, so try to plan accordingly. And if you’re commuting into the city for work, your car time could grow even more. But never fear—check out apps that play recorded books, or find some new podcasts to make your commute go that much faster.
A different kind of nightlife
Partying until the wee hours might be the norm for some in the city, but outside the city, you’ll find the late-night options can get pretty thin. There’ll definitely be less places to grab a 2 am slice of pizza, and if you’re a veteran of the clubbing scene… good luck. But at the same time, there’s a whole host of new spots to discover and call your own. Do some research and try out the local watering holes to find one that’s right for you. It can also be important to remember that you’re probably not the only one making the shift to suburban nightlife, so ask around at work or your children’s school for recommendations. And if all else fails, there’s always the option to bounce into the city on a Friday or Saturday night…
Peace and quiet
While the suburbs might be lacking in late night taco joints, there’s one thing it has in abundance— quiet. Gone are the blaring taxi’s, running rains and unexpected jackhammers that form the soundtrack of your average day in the city. Life outside the city isn’t like living in a sound vacuum, but as a general rule the loudest thing you’ll hear most nights is a hoot owl.
Private space that’s truly private
Along with a green space to call your own, moving out of the city means you’re not hearing the upstairs neighbors playing video games until 3 am, or having to make small talk with that awkward neighbor down the hall. Moving out of the city means your space is your own, with more privacy and quiet. However, one thing to watch out for is the isolation that can come from leaving the city. It can sometimes be harder to meet new people, so invest and connect with your local community through service organizations, a sports team or a local school to connect with new groups and people.
Outdoor space to call your own
Moving out of the city means having the freedom to use your new outdoor space as you see fit. You’re free to set up a hammock in the backyard, build your own firepit or deck out your driveway with a basketball hoop. And if you have any sort of green thumb, then moving out of the city and to a larger space is a dream come true. You’ll be able to ditch your window box garden for the real deal and use your backyard to create a floral canvas to plant and decorate as you see fit.