The events of the past few years have left many of us reevaluating where and how we work and live. As you look for a change of scenery and try to find your forever city, you might wonder if city or country/suburban life is right for you. We’ve already given you a few things to consider before moving to the country, so here are some pros and cons to keep in mind before packing up and heading to a big city.
Pros of Living in a Big City
There’s a reason big cities attract big populations. With endless activities, great food, and better jobs, it’s no surprise many people dream of making the move. The advantages of living in the city include:
1. More Job Opportunities
Large corporations tend to flock to cities, and one look at city skyscrapers will give you a good idea of what companies you can apply to. Whether you’re interested in the corporate world, retail, the medical field, or something in between, you’ll find no shortage of job openings. And many of these jobs come with higher salaries than outside the city.
2. Tons of Entertainment and Dining Options
One of the biggest pros of living in the city is you never have to be bored. City life is bustling, and you will always find things to do. From Instagram-worthy brunch spots to cozy local cafes to vibrant nightclubs, there are options that fit every lifestyle and mood.
When researching cities to live in, consider the activities you enjoy. Cities like Los Angeles and Boston might be great for sports fans, while cities like Las Vegas and NYC are go-to’s for nightlife.
3. Better Access to Public Transportation
You can easily get around in many major cities, thanks to public transit. Buses, subways, trams, and even rentable electric scooters and bikes make transportation a breeze — without needing a car.
Keep in mind that not every large city has robust public transportation systems. New York and Chicago are known for their amazing subway and train systems, but other cities may only offer buses or commuter rail. Unless you live in the middle of downtown, you may have fewer options. Research the types of transportation available in different cities and how widespread they are to find the right fit for your lifestyle.
4. Walkability
Don’t feel like riding the bus? When you live closer to the heart of the city, you can often find most things you need within walking distance, whether it’s a little bodega for groceries around the corner or a hip restaurant for dinner a few blocks away.
Like public transportation, walkability can vary from city to city and neighborhood to neighborhood. If walkability is a must, make sure you choose an apartment in the right area.
5. Airport Proximity and Quality
Big cities usually have bigger and better airports. Being close to an airport can be a huge plus if you’re a jet setter or need to travel for work. Airfare tends to be lower when flying between larger airports, and you’ll have more flights to choose from. Plus, you might have public transportation options for getting to the airport, saving you the cost of rideshares or airport parking.
Cons of Living in a Big City
While big city life has a ton to offer, it can also come with drawbacks, especially if you’re used to a more rural environment. Disadvantages of living in the city include:
1. More People
Cities attract a lot of people, which can definitely be a con if you like personal space. Sidewalks, grocery stores, bars, and other public places are more crowded in the city than in the country. On the other hand, some might consider more people to be one of the benefits of living in the city. After all, higher population density makes it easier to meet people in your new city.
2. Less Space
Larger populations also tend to mean less room when it comes to housing. To fit more people in, apartments and residential spaces might be smaller than you’d like. Depending on the city, it can be difficult to find rentals with plenty of square footage, enough storage space, or outdoor areas like patios and yards.
3. Higher Cost of Living
With more people concentrated in a city, the cost of living tends to be much higher than in the suburbs or rural areas. You might find more job opportunities with higher salaries in the city, but you also have to consider the larger price tag for rent, groceries, and other necessities.
A cost of living calculator can help you determine how much you need to make to maintain your current standard of living. Use this information to guide salary negotiations while searching for new jobs and to decide if you can afford a bigger city.
4. Noise
Because cities have so much going on, they tend to be noisy. You have to worry about the noise from traffic, police sirens, large groups of people walking down the street, nearby concerts, trains, and planes. Crowded apartments might also mean thin walls where you can easily hear those living next to and above you. If you enjoy peace and quiet, city life might not be for you.
5. Parking Can Be a Struggle
Depending on where you live in the city, you might not have all the same benefits of living in a downtown apartment. You may not be able to walk everywhere, and your public transportation options could be limited, which can cause you to rely on a car. Unfortunately, many cities don’t have much parking, leaving you circling the block a few dozen times for an open spot or paying an arm and a leg to park in a garage.
City vs. Suburb: Which Is Right for You?
When considering the differences between city vs. country living, the only person who knows which one is better is you. Maybe the pros of city life outweigh the cons for you, or vice versa. Whether you choose to make the move to a major metropolis or are looking to slink out to the suburbs, CORT is here to help.
Customize a CORT Furniture Rental package that suits your space and big city (or not!) style. After you build your furniture and houseware package, set a delivery date, and our team will take care of the rest, including setting up your furniture in your new home. Then, once you’re ready to move out, we’ll pick it up! Get started at your local CORT showroom or online today.
