The Cost of Living in the City vs. The Country

Livings in the city and the country both have their upsides and drawbacks. For many people looking to sell their home and move, it all boils down to what kind of neighbourhood you want to live in. Are you looking for fast-paced action, or would you prefer a backyard with lots of green space?
Whether or not you should live in the city or the country also depends on cost and how you want to spend your money. Use this guide to learn more about the cost of living in the city versus the country.
Price Per Square Foot
The number one difference when it comes to living in the city versus the country is the cost of your real estate. In general, and with very few exceptions, the cost per square foot for property in the city is much higher. In some areas, it can easily be double what you pay in the country.
For many people on the market, the cost of buying property is by far the most important factor. Even if you don’t require a lot of square footage, most do not want to cram a whole family into two rooms.
Maintenance Costs
You tend to get more space for less money in the country. Remember that space isn’t without a price. If you move from a two-bedroom in the city to a five-bedroom in the country that’s a lot more square footage you’ve got to maintain.
General maintenance might be easy. However, things like paying for stopped up drains, repainting and other maintenance will add up. The more space you have, the more you have to pay to keep it up.
Transportation Costs
If you work in the city, it’s fair to say that transportation costs when you commute from a country home will be higher. For many people, the extra cost of the commute pales in comparison to the extra living space and reduced mortgage costs.
Figure out your transportation costs in both scenarios – country versus city. You’ll likely pay more in the country in gas and auto maintenance, but insurance premiums might drop as well.
Whether or not you live in the city or the country is a matter of personal taste. While you may save money living in the country, factors like your commute may not make it as practical for you.
Take your time when shopping around and make the right choice for yourself and your family. Selling your home and buying a new one, whether you’re trading the big city for the country or vice versa, are a big step.