Should you live in the city or commute?

Making the decision to live in the city or commute from a nearby area is a critical choice that impacts your lifestyle, finances, and overall well-being. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as both options offer unique benefits and drawbacks. When it comes to weighing choices, there’s really nothing that beats a good old pros and cons list.

Let’s dive into some considerations to help you decide what’s best for you.

Living in the City: Pros and Cons

PROS

• Convenience: City living often equates to having almost everything you need within walking distance or a short subway ride away. Supermarkets, gyms, parks, restaurants, and more are just around the corner.
• Public Transportation: With subway systems, buses, and even bike lanes, cities offer multiple ways to get around without needing a car – and you get to save on car expenses like gas, car insurance, and parking, just to name a few.
• Walkability: One of the joys of city living is the ability to walk to a variety of locations. You’ll discover charming shops, bustling restaurants, and hidden gems that you can stumble upon and explore.
• Cultural Activities: From indie movie theaters and specialty bookshops, to high-profile art galleries and international concerts, the city offers a rich cultural range of immersive activities.
• Networking Opportunities: Cities, as business hubs, provide abundant career opportunities and networking events across different industries.

CONS

• Higher Cost of Living: City living can be expensive. Rents can be high, and even everyday items like groceries or a cup of coffee can be pricier compared to suburban area prices.
• Smaller Living Spaces: Apartments in cities can be small, especially for the cost. You may find yourself needing on-demand storage solutions to make room in your living space.
• Noise and Pollution: Cities can be loud and not as clean, which can be a downside if you’re looking for a more quiet and tranquil environment to call home.

Living Outside of the City: Pros & Cons

PROS

• Affordability: Typically, suburbs or more rural neighborhoods offer more space for the same amount or less compared to city apartments.
• Space and Comfort: With more space, you can comfortably store seasonal items, furniture, and maybe even create a home office without feeling cramped.
• Quality of Life: Suburban or rural areas often offer a quieter, more peaceful setting than cities, which many be conducive for families or those seeking that type of lifestyle.

CONS

• Time and Cost of Commuting: Depending on where you live, commuting can take up a significant portion of your day. Don’t forget to consider the cost of train tickets or gas.
• Additional Costs: The money saved from cheaper rent might go into transportation costs or maintaining a car.
• Limited Nightlife and Social Activities: Some suburbs may not have as many restaurants, shops, or entertainment options, and it might require a drive or a trip into the nearest city. Options for late-night outings will be more limited and might require more planning.
• Job Opportunities: While not always the case, there are often fewer job opportunities in smaller towns compared to major urban cities.

Practical Considerations

• Transportation: Regular commuters often benefit from monthly passes or travel cards. Explore these options for savings. Additionally, purchasing tickets in advance or during off-peak hours can sometimes be cheaper.
• Drive Smart: If you’re driving, consider carpooling or using park-and-ride facilities near train stations to save on city parking fees.
• Costs: Living in the city might eliminate the need for a car, but the cost of living could be higher. Make sure to budget for this and possibly consider options like on-demand storage to save space.
• Digital Tools: Use apps and online platforms to check traffic conditions, train delays, or even to book tickets. Tools like Google Maps, Citymapper, or local transit apps can be invaluable.

Priority & Preferences

Finally, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your deciding criteria and influencing factors, as well as how you would prioritize and rank them when making the decision between city living and residing outside of the city.

Non-negotiable factors may include:

1. Budget: The amount of money you can afford to spend on rent is a fixed factor because it’s determined by your financial situation.
2. Location: Your workplace, school, or other commitments might dictate a specific area where you need to live, making location a fixed factor.
3. Size: If you have a family or specific space requirements, the size of the rental or house you need could be a fixed factor.
4. Safety: Ensuring the safety of the neighborhood or building may be non-negotiable.

On the other hand, “preferences” are factors that are more flexible and can vary from person to person.

Preferences may include:

1. Amenities: Preferences for amenities like a gym, swimming pool, or in-unit laundry can vary based on personal preferences.
2. Decor and Style: Your taste in interior design and decor is a matter of personal preference.
3. Pet-Friendly: Whether or not you have or want pets can influence your choice.
4. View: Some people may prioritize having a specific view from their apartment.

It’s important to distinguish between fixed factors and preferences when searching for an apartment because it helps you focus on what is essential and what you can be flexible about during your search.

Being as deliberate as possible with your criteria will set you up to have contentment and satisfaction with whatever choice you make.

Takeway

Walking through a city often feels like an adventure, offering chances to explore diverse shops, cafes, and hidden nooks, making everyday errands an opportunity for discovery. However, the peace and space offered by living outside of the city has its own unmatched appeal.

Whether you’re a city dweller at heart or you crave the open spaces that come with commuting, both lifestyles have their merits. Remember, your choice isn’t set in stone and you can always change your mind later.

When it comes time to make a move, whether you’re downsizing to a city apartment or moving to a spacious suburban home, remember that Piece of Cake Moving & Storage offers tailored solutions for all your moving needs. Reach out to us for a free, no-obligation quote and make your move a piece of cake.

Let us simplify your journey, wherever it takes you.