One of the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic is what has been dubbed as "The Great Relocation." During the early days of the pandemic, workers scrambled to pivot to a virtual workspace.

As the pandemic wore on and workers stayed out of the traditional office, it became clear that working from home was both feasible and desirable. As a result, many organizations have provided their staff with the opportunity to continue in this remote space going forward.

The shift to a virtual workspace has left many office workers taking advantage of the situation and moving to a more rural community. While you may miss some of the conveniences of urban living, there are also numerous upsides to a rural existence. Here are a few of the top reasons why more Americans are embracing a rural lifestyle and getting out of the city.

Lower Cost of Living

The most obvious reason to move out of the city is to enjoy a lower overall cost of living. There is no doubt that housing typically costs significantly less the farther out from the city that you get. Relocating to a smaller community also may reduce your living expenses far beyond housing costs. Most people are delighted to find that food, childcare, and utility costs are also lower in rural areas.

When in a remote position where your salary may not change, this lower cost of living translates to more disposable income to spend on vacations, hobbies, and other enriching activities. You will also find that by being able to stretch your housing dollar further, you will likely enjoy a larger home or more acreage. This will give you more room to entertain friends and family while providing more flexible living space.

Greater Health and Well-Being

While some people thrive in the energy of a city, others prefer a more laid-back lifestyle. If you know that you prefer a quieter existence, your overall health and well-being will benefit by living outside of the hustle and bustle of the city. The fresh air and open skies of a rural community can encourage a greater amount of physical activity than living in a concrete jungle, helping you to stay in shape and on top of your health.

Additionally, research has demonstrated that living in the city can lead to higher rates of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Leaning into a rural existence may bring you a peace that you could never find amidst so many people. This is especially true if you know that you thrive on spending time outside connecting with nature.

More Opportunities for Community Involvement

Another benefit to living in a smaller town is that it promotes a greater ability to get involved in your community. This sense of community can help you to feel connected to something bigger than yourself, increasing your sense of self-worth and contribution to mankind. It is typically easier to get involved in your local community when you live in a smaller town. You may also find that you can positively impact your community if you are more involved in the day to day activities of the community. From volunteering at the local soup kitchen to coaching a youth sports team, it is easier to get involved in smaller communities.

Better for the Environment

Those who are environmentally conscious may choose rural living because of the countless opportunities that it provides to reduce your carbon footprint. In addition to avoiding a long commute to work on a freeway, you will also be afforded the chance to engage in activities such as growing your own food. Living outside of the congested city also helps you to live a more sustainable existence by contributing to less waste. While the transition may be challenging in the beginning, many people find that they feel less stressed when they dive into this cleaner way of living.

Before you choose a rural lifestyle over life in the big city, it is important that you examine the pros and cons of each choice and how it may impact your family both now and down the road.