On the Move: Urban vs. Rural Areas of Washington Compared

Moving to Washington is an amazing choice for many people and families, but the decision of where to live can be a tough one. Some may prefer the big cities, while others want to be a little more out of the way in a more rural area. It’s important to consider everything the area offers before deciding on whether to check a more rural area or a big city. Some considerations before moving or looking at houses can include the following.

Big Cities or Suburban Areas

The hustle and bustle of city life is exactly what many people prefer. They may love the nightlift, enjoy having a shorter commute each day, or want to be in an area with lots of people and plenty to see and do. Others may want to live closer to a big city, but not in it, so they can get the benefits of city life while enjoying a quieter home experience. Those looking for an urban or suburban area might want to look at homes for sale in newcastle wa, as this offers gorgeous neighbourhoods, more space, but is still in close proximity to Renton, Bellevue, and Seattle.

More Rural Locations

Some people prefer a quieter area with more natural beauty nearby than the hustle of city life. For these people, a rural area might be perfect. Though they may have a longer commute and fewer nearby services, they can look forward to a lower cost of living, a more tightly connected community, and the ability to be more self-sufficient. There are tons of rural areas within Washington state, so those who prefer to live outside of the big cities have plenty of beautiful areas to look into to find a home they’ll love.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in rural areas tends to be a lot lower compared to urban areas. In general, homes in rural areas tend to be a lot more affordable, though there are fewer mutli-family and rental properties in rural areas. Urban areas tend to have more mult-family properties available as well as rental options, though they can be a lot more expensive. However, this should be considered alongside the cost of the commute and other factors that may influence just how expensive it is to live in a certain area.

Job Market Prospects

Those who live in the big cities will find they have plenty of job opportunities, especially in cities like Seattle. There are fewer job options in rural areas, so those who decide to live outside of the city may have to deal with a longer commute during the week. In the city, public transportation is commonly available, while rural areas may not have that option. Those who want to minimise their commute will want to live closer to the city, while those who don’t mind the drive may be able to live further away.

Access to Nature

Washington is a gorgeous state with tons of trails to explore. Though it’s possible to explore them no matter where someone lives, those who live in urban areas tend to be closer to the parks, as well as able to really see the beauty of the area. This can be more hidden in the city, as the skyline can tend to block the amazing views throughout the state. It is important to note that wildlife is more prominent in rural areas, so it is important to learn about what lives in the area to be better prepared for potential interactions.

Community Vibes

Community vibes can be very different in rural and urban areas. Cities tend to be more diverse, but everything is fast-paced. Rural areas tend to be more close-knit and relaxed. However, this can vary from area to area. If community vibes are important, it’s a good idea to see the location in person and get to know a little more about what the area is like before starting to look at homes to buy.

Amenities Nearby

In more rural areas, there may be few amenities. There may be only a few restaurants, gas stations are further apart, and there may not be other places like libraries without having to drive. In the city, all of the amenities are nearby and available to use. Those who want to take advantage of the local amenities, like eating out regularly, will want to look into moving into the city. Those who may not eat out often or do not need other amenities as frequently may not need to live as close, as they can always make a trip to the city when they need something.

Internet Access

Internet access can be a concern in rural areas. The city has plenty of options available, but the further away a person gets from the city, the fewer options they may have for the internet. In the rural areas, phone internet connections can be spotty, and household internet may be limited. Depending on how far from the nearest cities the home is, options like satellite internet may be all that’s available. Those who work from home or otherwise need a faster internet connection may want to live closer to the city.

Which is the Right Option?

The right option will vary from person to person. Some people may prefer city life, while others want a more rural home. Others may prefer a suburban area to get the best of both worlds. Before deciding on a place to live, potential homebuyers will want to think about what they want or need, and which one of these options is going to be the best fit for them.

If you’re planning on moving to Washington, take the time to think about where you’d like to live – urban or rural? Or, would you prefer a more suburban area to get the best of both worlds? Once you’ve decided, working with a real estate agent is the best way to get the help you need to find the perfect home to buy. Check out available homes today to find one you’ll love.