Making the choice of finding a property in a bustling city center or a quieter suburban area might be an easy one for some, but if you’re having trouble deciding what area is best for you, read on to learn about the pros and cons of both.

City Living

Pros

• Accessibility : Many cities are built to be accessible, you can access most of your daily needs just by walking or using public transportation. This cuts down the need for a vehicle, saving money on gas, insurance, and parking.
• Diversity : In urban settings you’ll find a variety of people and their cultures, meaning you can find a big selection of restaurants, events, and communities.
• Entertainment : Along with ease of access to places like grocery shops and drug stores, cities also offer quicker and broader access to places of entertainment. While a suburban area might have a movie theater and a few parks, you can find a much bigger range of places to have fun, all close to your home.
• Job Opportunities : While working from home does increase the range of jobs available, cities simply have more employment opportunities than other less densely populated areas.

Cons

• Higher Cost of Living : While you might be saving money on cars and transportation, cities in general tend to cost more. Food costs more and rent and property prices are higher. The average home price in a city can be nearly double that of a home in the suburbs or countryside, meaning your monthly mortgage payment will also be significantly higher in the city.
• Noise and Cleanliness : Cities are loud, pollution is more concentrated, and the streets tend to be dirtier than in less-populated areas. For some, this might not be a deal-breaker, but if you’re someone who enjoys spending time outside, it can be difficult to find somewhere nice and quiet to relax in.
• Densely Populated : Obviously, in a densely populated area there are going to be more people. This adds to the amount of noise you can hear, it affects the busyness of everyday places and potentially, longer time spent in said places. This results in longer waits for tables at restaurants, longer waits for pickup at stores, etc.

Suburban Dwelling

Pros

• Cost of Living : The cost of living is generally cheaper, with groceries, housing, and rental prices lower than they would be in the city. Consider that your monthly mortgage payment could be half of what it would be if you were living in the city.
• Spacious Living : Homes are bigger, they have backyards and quieter streets for kids to play on. Neighborhoods have parks and green areas, even schools might have larger areas for recess and recreation than their city counterparts.
• Lower crime rates : Suburbs typically have lower crime rates than cities, making them safer and more secure places to live. This can make suburban properties more desirable, driving up demand and value.
• Community Feel : Suburbs often have a stronger sense of community and neighborly connections, which can be appealing for families.

Cons

• Dependence on Cars : Suburbs typically require owning a car for daily activities, as public transportation options may be limited or less convenient. This is an important factor to consider because the cost of owning a vehicle may outweigh the benefits of having a lower monthly mortgage payment depending on the type of car or home you have.
• Social Isolation : Suburban neighborhoods can be quieter and more spread out, which may lead to a sense of social isolation compared to the social opportunities and diversity of city life.
• Costs Can Add Up : While housing may be cheaper, other costs such as transportation (e.g., gas, car maintenance) and utilities (if they’re not included in rent) can add up.

Choosing Between Them

When deciding between city and suburban living, it’s crucial to consider your lifestyle preferences, career aspirations, family situation, and financial circumstances :

• Personal Preferences : Do you thrive on the energy and diversity of the city, or do you prefer the tranquility and space of the suburbs?
Family Considerations: Are good schools and safe neighborhoods a priority for you? How important is it to have a community-oriented environment?
• Career Opportunities : Where are the job opportunities in your field located? Will a longer commute from the suburbs impact your quality of life?
• Financial Situation : Can you afford the higher cost of living in the city, or would you prefer to invest in a larger home in the suburbs?

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Should You Live In The City Or The Suburbs? by Aiden Lowrie | zoocasa