Embracing the Shift: 6 Differences Between City Life and Country Living in BC — And Why It's Easier Than You Think
December 17th 2024
At BC Land Lots & Acreages, we know that moving from city life to the country is a dream for many. Yet, for all the allure of open spaces, fresh air, and serene landscapes, there’s often hesitation. The idea of leaving behind the conveniences of city living — even in exchange for a peaceful rural lifestyle — can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: making the move to the country isn’t as difficult as you might think. In fact, with the right mindset and a few adjustments, you’ll find that country living offers not only freedom and tranquility but also an incredibly rewarding lifestyle that’s well within reach.
Let’s explore the key differences between city life and country living and see why the shift is more manageable — and enjoyable — than you might expect.
1. More Space, More Freedom — and It’s Easier to Manage Than You Think
One of the most significant advantages of moving to the country is the space. Rural properties in BC typically come with acres of land, offering room to build your dream home, plant a garden, or simply enjoy the outdoors. At first glance, the idea of maintaining all that space might seem daunting, especially if you're coming from a small city lot or apartment.
But here’s the thing: rural life allows you to manage your space on your terms. There’s no pressure to have a perfectly manicured lawn or a high-maintenance garden. You can ease into property care, learning at your own pace. Plus, many rural communities have local experts — from landscapers to handy neighbours — who can help when needed. Once you settle in, the extra space will feel like a blessing, not a burden.
2. Self-Reliance Doesn’t Mean Going It Alone
Country living does encourage a level of self-reliance, but this doesn’t mean you’re suddenly expected to know how to do everything by yourself. The shift might feel unfamiliar at first, but it’s far from insurmountable. For example, rural homes often have wells, septic systems, or alternative energy sources. At first, these systems might sound complicated, but they’re straightforward to manage with the right guidance.
You’ll quickly find that rural life has a rhythm that allows for a natural learning curve. And when you need help, you’re not alone. Whether it’s hiring someone to service your septic system or chatting with neighbours who’ve lived in the area for years, support is readily available. As you become more familiar with your new lifestyle, that sense of self-sufficiency will actually become one of the most rewarding aspects of living in the country.
3. Closer to Nature, Closer to Simplicity
One of the things that draws people to rural BC is the opportunity to live close to nature. The serenity of waking up to the sound of birds instead of traffic is hard to beat, and spending your days surrounded by trees, lakes, and wildlife is a wonderful change from concrete streets and high-rises. But if you’ve never lived in a rural area, you might wonder how challenging it is to live alongside nature.
The truth is, adjusting to nature’s rhythm is much simpler than you might expect. You’ll quickly learn the basics — like securing garbage to avoid attracting wildlife or keeping pets safe from local animals. But beyond that, nature becomes a welcome part of your daily routine. Gardening, hiking, and simply being outdoors aren’t chores; they’re privileges. You’ll discover that living in harmony with nature is one of the most satisfying elements of country life.
4. A Close-Knit Community, Not Isolation
There’s a common misconception that moving to the country means isolation, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Rural communities in BC are known for being close-knit and supportive. While you might not have a neighbour living five feet from your door, country living fosters a different kind of connection — one built on community, trust, and mutual help.
In fact, many people find it easier to build meaningful relationships in the country than in the anonymity of the city. You’ll quickly get to know your neighbours, whether it’s through local farmers’ markets, community events, or simple interactions when you need a helping hand. There’s a sense of belonging in rural areas that feels authentic and comforting. Moving to the country doesn’t mean being alone; it means being part of a community that genuinely cares.
5. The Pace Is Slower, But Life Is Fuller
City life is all about speed — fast commutes, fast services, fast food. The pace of the countryside is undeniably slower, but that doesn’t mean less gets done. In fact, life in the country can feel fuller and richer because there’s more time to enjoy the things that matter.
While it’s true that you won’t have a coffee shop on every corner or same-day delivery services, you’ll find that rural living offers something even better: time. Time to enjoy your morning coffee with a view of the mountains. Time to spend with family without the pressure of the next meeting or traffic jam. Time to pursue hobbies like gardening, hiking, or simply relaxing.
And the adjustment? It’s easier than you think. Many people who move to the country find that the slower pace feels like a natural shift — a welcome change from the constant rush of city life.
6. Staying Connected: You Don’t Have to Give Up Tech
One worry many people have about moving to the country is losing access to reliable internet and technology. After all, we rely on connectivity for work, socializing, and entertainment. The good news is that modern rural living has come a long way. Many rural areas in BC now have access to high-speed internet through satellite or fibre optics, meaning you can stay connected and even work remotely without a hitch.
Sure, it’s important to check the options available in the area you’re considering, but for most country properties, staying online isn’t a challenge. So, while you might be trading skyscrapers for scenic views, you won’t be giving up your Netflix subscription or your Zoom meetings.
The Move You’ve Always Wanted Is Within Reach
At BC Land Lots & Acreages, we understand the hesitation that can come with leaving the city behind. But we also know that living in the country isn’t as hard of a transition as it seems. The move is not only manageable but also deeply fulfilling. Whether you’re dreaming of more space, a stronger connection to nature, or a slower pace of life, country living in BC offers an exciting new chapter that’s easier to embrace than you think.
For those ready to make the shift, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From finding the perfect plot of land to answering any questions about rural life, our team at BC Land Lots & Acreages is committed to making your dream of country living a reality.
Ready to take the leap? Explore land for sale in BC on our Current Projects page and start your journey to a simpler, richer life in rural BC. You’ve got this — and we’re here to help.
Contact us to get started.