I’ve always loved the idea of the country, but let’s be honest—I never considered myself a country girl. I grew up in the city, where life was about working for money, heading to the store for what you needed, and embracing the fast pace of urban living. When we made the shift from city to country living, it was tough. I felt like I had no choice in some ways, and at times, I was angry and resentful. But now? I can confidently say that this lifestyle brings more peace, a stronger family bond, and a sense of fulfillment I never knew I needed.
If you’re considering a move from city life to the countryside, here are a few things to think about before making the leap.
1. Define Your “Why”
Before you do anything, ask yourself: Why do I want to move to the country?
Is it for self-sufficiency? Affordability? A safer environment for your kids? Maybe you just crave peace and quiet. Whatever your reasons, knowing your “why” will help you push through the inevitable challenges.
And speaking of challenges—don’t fall for the picture-perfect images of rural living on social media. While the sunsets and open spaces are beautiful, the reality is a lot of hard work, dirt, and yes… worms. If you go into it with realistic expectations, you’ll be better prepared for the transition.
2. Research Your Ideal Location
Not all rural areas are created equal. Before buying land or a home, do your homework:
- Climate & weather – Are you prepared for harsh winters or hot, dry summers?
- Zoning laws & property taxes – Can you have chickens or a large garden? What are the tax rates?
- Access to medical care & schools – If you have young kids, how far is the nearest doctor, hospital, or school?
- Internet & water access – These are must-haves, so don’t assume they’ll be readily available. Many people buy land only to realize there’s no water access—big mistake!
3. Budget for the Transition
City life is expensive, but so is rural living—just in different ways. Some hidden costs include:
- Road maintenance (especially if you have a long driveway or private road)
- Septic systems and well water maintenance
- Heating options (wood, propane, solar, etc.)
The good news? With proper planning, your monthly bills can be significantly lower. Many homesteaders choose solar or wind power to cut down on long-term energy costs. Also, consider ways to earn money remotely—blogging, tutoring, selling handmade goods—so you can avoid long commutes to a city job.
4. Finding the Right Property
If you’re house hunting, consider the pros and cons of raw land vs. a home with infrastructure:
- Existing home – Often comes with a septic system, well, and driveway, saving you major costs.
- Raw land – Requires building from scratch, which can be pricey, but gives you full control.
Soil quality is another major factor. If you plan to garden or raise animals, get the soil tested before you buy. The land’s water table and drainage also impact your well water quality, so don’t skip this step!
5. Prepare for a Simpler (but More Hands-On) Lifestyle
Living in the country means fewer conveniences. No more Instacart deliveries or quick runs to Target—you’ll need to plan ahead. But the good news? You’ll learn how to be more resourceful.
Start practicing before you move:
- Learn basic gardening and food preservation (canning, freezing, drying)
- Try raising small animals like chickens (if allowed in your current area)
- Get comfortable with DIY home maintenance
When you live rurally, it’s a whole different ball game. Forgot an ingredient? You make do. Need brown sugar? Mix white sugar with molasses. The more self-sufficient you become, the easier the transition will be.
6. Common Challenges (and How to Handle Them)
Every lifestyle has its struggles. Here are a few you might face in the country and how to prepare:
- Isolation – Join local groups, visit farmers’ markets, and connect online before you move.
- Seasonal struggles – Snow removal, flooding, and even wildlife encounters can be new challenges.
- Fewer job opportunities – Consider a remote or freelance job to maintain financial stability.
7. Final Tips for a Smooth Transition
Before making the full move, try these steps:
- Test it out first – Rent a rural home for a few months before buying.
- Start small – You don’t need 100 acres to embrace a rural lifestyle. Even backyard gardening and small livestock can be a great first step.
- Talk to locals – Join community Facebook groups and ask for advice.
- Be patient – You will learn as you go. Mistakes are part of the process!
Conclusion
Moving from city to country is a big adjustment, but if your “why” is strong enough, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. It’s a slower, simpler way of life, but with the right preparation, it can also be deeply fulfilling.
Have you made the transition from city to country living? Drop a comment below with your best tips! And if you’re just starting your journey, check out my Homesteading 101 Guide to help you get started.
Aditional Resources
Check out these fantastic resources to help you make the transition as smooth as possible.
