A guide to moving out of the city

Author: Gabrielle D, Staff Writer

Many of us are becoming exhausted by city life. Whilst the hustle and bustle may seem appealing, the reality of living in the city can be tiring and stressful. As a society, we are becoming less connected to nature, and with the ongoing wellness, environmental and even ‘cottage-core’ trends, more people are needing time in nature, whether they realise it or not.

It is especially common for young people to push back the idea of country living, associating it with slowing, or ‘settling’, down. However, we think that living outside of the city can be beneficial for everyone, whatever your life stage.

If you have already made up your mind, maybe you’re seeking a quieter neighbourhood starting a family, or a more affordable cost of living, this article will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips on how to successfully navigate the transition from urban living to a more suburban or rural lifestyle.

Define your priorities

Before taking the leap, take some time to reflect on your motivations and priorities for moving out of the city. What aspects of city living are you looking to leave behind, and what do you hope to gain in your new location? Consider factors such as commute time, access to amenities, community, outdoor activities, and overall quality of life. Moving to the country may also come with some solitude. It can be a great time for self-reflection, as socialising with people may come and go, depending on your desired location.

Starting a family? Perhaps you are moving out of the city to raise children in a healthier environment. Write down a list of priorities that your children will need. This may include schools, clubs, sports, and surrounding social activities. Making a clear list will help you to make better decisions throughout your move.

Research potential locations

Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, start researching potential locations that align with your priorities. Look for areas that offer the amenities and lifestyle you desire, such as good schools, healthcare facilities, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community. Online resources, real estate websites, and local forums such as Rightmove, Zoopla and Onthemarket can provide valuable information about different neighbourhoods and towns.

Visit and explore

Before making a final decision, plan a few visits to the areas you're considering. Spend time exploring the neighbourhoods, talking to locals, and experiencing the local culture. The community will know the area inside and out, so don’t be shy to ask questions! This will give you a better sense of the community dynamics, the available amenities, and the overall atmosphere. Pay attention to the infrastructure, transport options, and proximity to essential services like supermarkets and healthcare facilities.

erhaps spend a few weeks or even a couple of months to absorb yourself in the area. Pay attention to how it feels to be in a remote location, is this something that you could see for the long-term? Or maybe things start to run dry after a few weeks. Keep a journal of how you feel throughout the trip and take note of anything that may need improving.

Consider the cost of living

One of the significant advantages of moving out of the city is often a more affordable cost of living. Take the time to assess the financial aspects of your potential move. Compare housing prices, property taxes, utilities, and other expenses in different areas. Make sure you factor in the potential changes in income, job opportunities, and any additional expenses associated with commuting. Also, consider how you would like to manage the extra savings each month. Perhaps, invest in higher-quality food, a family pet, holidays or even saving for a future investment. The cost of living in the countryside can open several opportunities for financial savings, so plan wisely!

Plan your finances

Moving to a new location requires careful financial planning. Create a budget that considers not only the costs of buying or renting a new home but also the expenses associated with the move itself. These can include moving services, removals, transport, storage, and any necessary renovations or repairs. You should also account for potential changes in your income and the overall cost of living in your new location.

When considering the cost of moving, use companies who aim to make the move easier, for both your mind and your wallet. At LOVESPACE, our removals service can collect your items and deliver them to any address in the UK. Need somewhere to temporarily store your things? We can do that to with our large-scale Storage Units, which include home collection and delivery.

Find out more about our removal’s services and Storage Units.

Networking and building connections

Moving to a new place means starting fresh in terms of social connections. Make an effort to network and build relationships within the community even before you move. Join local online groups, attend community events, and get involved in activities that align with your interests. Sites such as Knowyourarea , Inyourarea and local Facebook groups may help you to get started! By getting outside, you’ll establish connections, make new friends, and feel a sense of belonging. Moving away from friends and family can be tough, so it may be a good idea to set up a few friendships within the area before you live there. It will be easier to adjust to the new surroundings when you have support around you.

Embrace the change

Moving out of the city entails a significant lifestyle change. Embrace the opportunities that come with it. Take advantage of the natural surroundings, engage in outdoor activities, and explore new hobbies that are easily accessible in your new location. Appreciate the slower pace of life, the sense of community, and the overall tranquillity that comes with living outside the city. Soak up everything the country has to offer and let go of the bustling expectations of the city.

To sum up…

Moving out of the city is a big decision, but with proper planning and research, it can be a rewarding and transformative experience. By defining your priorities, researching potential locations, considering the cost of living, planning your finances, building connections, and embracing the change, you can successfully transition to a new lifestyle that offers the peace, space, and quality of life you desire. Remember, it's not just a physical move; it's an opportunity to create a new quality of life!