The Drawbacks of Rural Living: Why Coastal City Residents Avoid Moving to Rural America
I have considered moving to a rural area, but there are several reasons why this dream hasn't become a reality. Let's delve into why many coastal city residents avoid moving to rural America.
Why Not Moving to Rural America?
Winter Seasons
One of the primary reasons many people avoid rural areas is the presence of winter. I have experienced numerous cold winters, and the ice, snow, and frigid temperatures are simply not to my liking. While some may find the beauty and peace of winter worth it, for me, a sun-kissed spring or warm summer is more appealing.
Distance from the Ocean
Growing up near the Jersey Shore, the ocean has been a significant part of my life. The sight of the endless horizon, the sound of the waves crashing, and the salty breeze have all become ingrained in my daily life. In rural areas, the nearest ocean can be hundreds of miles away, which is a significant change from my accustomed lifestyle.
Lack of Cultural and Recreational Facilities
Many rural areas lack the cultural and recreational facilities that coastal cities offer. For instance, good bookstores and coffeehouses play a crucial role in maintaining sanity and providing a vibrant community atmosphere. In my search for fulfillment and a balanced life, these amenities are non-negotiable.
My Journey from the City to the Mountains
I grew up in New York City (NYC) and lived there till about 2013. Being in such a diverse and dynamic environment exposed me to a wide variety of cultures, languages, and cuisines. Friends and lovers from various backgrounds made NYC a melting pot of experiences and perspectives. I've had the opportunity to learn something new every day and to relish in the rich tapestry of global influences.
Quite unexpectedly, my life took a new turn. About eight years ago, my family had the option to move to Vermont, a state known for its scenic beauty and the rich Vermont tradition. We seized this opportunity and moved to a small, very rural area that had a population of just 2,000. The move was met with excitement and a sense of adventure, but it also came with its share of challenges.
Isolation and Quietness
The isolation and quietness in Vermont are astonishing in their own right. Nights with overcast skies become pitch-black, and the absence of sirens is almost surreal. The nights are so quiet that a car driving down a neighboring country road can be heard clearly. This stark contrast with the constant ambient noise in my former home can be quite challenging at times. However, it has also provided me with a unique opportunity to re-evaluate what silence means.
Nocturnal Experiences
Occasionally, I visit friends back in Queens, and the ambient light there is blinding compared to the pitch-black nights here. The night sky in New York City, a glowing purple with a myriad of stars, is a stark contrast to the dark sky here. I'm grateful that in rural Vermont, I can experience the full starry expanse above me.
Remote Work and Infrastructure Challenges
The only potential barrier to relocating to a rural area is the lack of opportunities, especially for those in need of immediate urban amenities. However, thanks to advancements in remote work, my ability to work from just about anywhere in the country has made the move relatively seamless. I'm a government contractor, and as such, I can work entirely remotely. As for internet access, while it can be a challenge in remote areas, the Government's infrastructure bill is working to address this issue. Soon, I'll have high-speed fiber in my mountain home, which will ensure I can work and live comfortably.
In conclusion, while rural America offers unparalleled peace and tranquility, it also presents certain challenges that some may find difficult to overcome. If remote work is an option and you're willing to embrace the differences, it's certainly worth considering. Likely, if you can find a job that can be done from anywhere, the only limitation is internet access, and even that is quickly improving.