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. Many married couples who come from the urban environment of a consumer society and who automatically chose to live together in the city begin to realize its numerous disadvantages sooner or later after starting a family.
The lack of privacy plays a major role, as do concerns about their children’s safety. Although urban infrastructure has changed significantly over the past twenty years, it must be said that in many places, the much-desired quiet zones with ample greenery are still lacking, while crime rates continue to rise year after year.
And that is one of the reasons why more and more people today are considering a return to the countryside. It undoubtedly brings a calmer life in a healthier environment and a sense of community, but it also comes with a few drawbacks. One could say, with a bit of an exaggeration, that living in the countryside can be somewhat more expensive. What do we mean by that?
We’re mainly talking about the necessity of commuting to work, to the doctor, and to schools. If a family doesn’t own two cars, this situation can be complicated, because public transportation in villages is increasingly limited to just a few bus routes a day. Do you have three children, each with different interests? Be prepared to drive out several times a day to take them to after-school activities, the movies, or sports games.
Often, neighbors will help each other out, but let’s be honest—it’s a big commitment to take responsibility for a car full of kids that you’re driving back and forth several times a week… and your neighbor surely feels the same way.
Don’t forget that you’ve also left your hobbies and friends behind in your former home, and you’ll surely want to keep seeing them. While cultural and social life in villages has improved significantly today, if you were used to your “city” life, you’ll likely continue to seek it out.
Therefore, carefully consider the decision to move to the countryside first, so that you don’t later face the unpleasant realization that you’re spending most of your free time not in the garden or at the playground with the kids, but in the car.