As they near retirement, many people start thinking about a change of scenery. For some, it could mean relocating to a warmer climate or moving closer to family members. For others, a move means trying something new, such as moving to a rural area or small town from the suburbs or an urban center.

Many older adults seek a new lifestyle for their retirement and are finding it in less populated areas. Here is why:

Enjoy the silence

The rat race that living in urban areas has become is exhausting. People long to be closer to nature, to enjoy spending time outdoors, and breathe in some fresh country air. Unfortunately, this might be impossible during their working years when they must live close to their employer. This could be in a manufacturing area or urban center. 

In these areas, there is constant noise and movement. Residents can very seldom enjoy a peaceful moment not punctuated by the existence of another person. When they retire, it is not uncommon for older adults to approach Digger Real Estate to look for acreage for sale in rural areas like Sturgeon County, where they will finally get the tranquility they crave.

A change of pace

Rural living works at a much slower pace than urban life. Things happen in different timeframes and far less of a rush. This can be a welcome relief from city life where it seems that everything must be instantaneous. In a rural setting, the adage that tomorrow is another day comes alive.

At retirement age, people are eager to escape the hamster wheel of life that requires continual movement with little rest. Intent on enjoying their senior years, they want things to slow down to a more natural pace. They are unlikely to find it in an urban area, whereas a rural property would be ideal.

Neighbors you can count on

People in urban areas and even in some suburbs do not always get to know their neighbors. Even when they do, interaction is typically limited to waving and greeting. As social creatures, this tendency goes against the human brain. It leads to a sense of isolation.

Rural communities are more tight-knit. People get to know each other well and step in to help when something goes wrong. It is not unusual for neighbors to stop by for a quick cup of coffee or call in to check on someone if they have not seen them. During times of need, the community bands together more readily offer support to others.

A great place for grandchildren to visit

Most retirees are grandparents. The relationship between grandparent and grandchild is difficult to capture in words. However, grandchildren are a delight and their grandparents’ pride and joy. Grandparents can play a critical role in their grandkids’ social and emotional development. 

While kids are young, there is nothing better than a visit to Grandpa and Grandma. Many of their fondest childhood memories will come from these times. A rural property with plenty of space for exploring and playing will make a grandparent’s home a place that kids love to visit.

Alone but not cut off

A few decades ago, people were reluctant to move to rural areas because they worried that they would be cut off from the world they are used to. This includes having ready access to their favorite stores. 

Internet connectivity is no longer a problem in rural areas, and it has never been easier to stay in touch with the outside world. Additionally, with online shopping now a reality, rural area dwellers can access the same goods and services as their city-dwelling counterparts.