If you’re moving to a new area or buying your first home, deciding whether you want to live in the suburbs or the city is a huge decision.
Perhaps you want your home to have a garden so you can take up gardening? Or maybe you prefer the hustle and bustle of the city?
The city and the suburbs both have their advantages and disadvantages. When deciding where to live, you should consider the types of housing each offers; the cost of living, population density and access to entertainment and amenities. Ultimately, your choice will be determined by your finances, lifestyle and personal preference.
For instance, many people love the best surburbs of Austin TX because they can live within driving distance of amenities but don’t have to contend with city life’s higher cost of living. On the other hand, people who love to live in the city are willing to pay more to be closer to bustling entertainment spots and exciting cultural events or activities.
Types of housing
In urban areas, you’ll find more apartments, flats and condos. On the other hand, the suburbs will have maisonettes, single-family homes and town houses.
When deciding whether to settle in the city or the suburbs, think about whether you plan to grow your family in the near future. Moving to the suburbs could be a better investment if you plan to adopt pets or have children.
Cost of living
Homes in the city tend to have higher taxes, utility rates and sales prices, which means the costs of living in the city are generally higher.
When considering whether to settle in the city or the suburbs, consider whether the amenities – like healthcare, shopping centres, restaurants, cultural and educational institutions – are worth paying more for to you.
Population density
In the city, the population density is much higher than in the suburbs. When deciding on a home in the suburbs or the city, consider how the higher or lower population density will likely affect you and your lifestyle.
If you have to commute from the suburbs to the city for school or work, there’ll be more traffic at these peak times. If you want to visit a local attraction on your day off, the city will always have larger crowds of people.
Arts and entertainment
Living in the city will mean you’ll have more opportunities to attend social events and concerts, enjoy the arts, and have more new experiences. If you want new experiences and love getting out, city living will place you at the heart of it all.
On the other hand, suburban living will be quieter and more relaxed – and if you don’t mind travelling to find entertainment, many people think it’s a good trade-off.
Which is right for you?
Usually, living in the suburbs means you’ll still have restaurants and shopping malls. However, suppose you love experiencing the city nightlife or enjoy going out frequently. In that case, city living may be the better choice for you.
To decide between a suburban home and an apartment in the city, you’ll need to consider your budget, lifestyle and whether anything will change in the coming years.
[disclosure*]