Should You Move to a Small Town?

With remote work still on the rise, more Canadians are leaving costly big cities in search of affordable homes, more space, and a slower pace of life. But before making the leap, it’s important to weigh the upsides and downsides of small-town living.

The Upsides

◾ Affordable Homes: Housing is generally cheaper than in major cities, freeing up money for renovations, savings, or family expenses.

◾ More Space: Larger homes often mean room for a family, home office, or yard.

◾ Nature at Your Doorstep: Small towns often offer quick access to parks, forests, and outdoor activities.

◾ Less Traffic: Shorter commutes and lighter traffic make daily life easier.

◾ Lower Car Insurance: Smaller towns typically mean lower premiums compared to big-city rates.

The Downsides

◾ Rising Prices: Demand has pushed small-town prices higher, reducing the bargains once common.

◾ Car Dependence: Most small towns lack transit options, meaning higher costs for owning one or even two vehicles.

◾ Limited Amenities: Fewer restaurants, entertainment venues, and services like medical care or gyms.

◾ Internet Challenges: Rural areas often have slower, less reliable internet.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

◾ Research First: Visit towns, talk to locals, and explore housing, jobs, schools, and healthcare.

◾ Secure Income: Ensure you have remote work or a job lined up.

◾ Connect Early: Join community groups or local social media pages to build connections.

◾ Adjust Expectations: Be ready for lifestyle changes like longer drives for services or fewer entertainment options.

◾ Give It Time: It may take a year or more to settle into the rhythms of small-town life.

The Bottom Line

Small-town living offers affordability, space, and a closer connection to nature but comes with trade-offs in convenience and amenities. If the quieter pace appeals to you more than late-night takeout or city nightlife, a move might be the perfect fit.  

If you have any questions about small town moves (or any moves!) please feel free to give me a call - no obligation 416-909-6497.