I had a thriving career in the suburbs in a nice, big house. What in the world would possess me to resign and leave it all behind for a fixer-upper in the middle of nowhere?

Living in the country truly offers many unexpected positives that I had not been willing to consider before now.

Here are some of the top unexpected positives about living in the country:

1. Peace and Quiet

One of the most noticeable benefits of living in the country is the peace and quiet that it offers. Away from the commotion of city life, the country offers a serene and tranquil environment. Our house is situated on the “main road” and yet there is little traffic. My son is excited that at night he will be able to look up at the sky and see all the stars that he has missed because of the light pollution of the city.

2. Stronger Sense of Community

Living in the country offers a strong sense of community. You know your neighbors and help each other out. Our new town has a population of less than 200 people in it, which means everybody knows everybody there. With the closest true town 20 minutes away, we will have to rely on our neighbors at times; I am excited to have a community of people on whom I will be able to trust and whom I will really get to know.

3. Access to Nature

Living in the country provides us true access to nature, fresh air, and wildlife. We will be surrounded by farm land and our own home will be on over half an acre. I am excited for the benefits to our mental health, since studies show that spending time in nature can reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Plus, we will only be a short drive from some amazing nature trails! (Looking for some awesome nature trails? Check out TrailLink for some near you!)

4. Greater Self-Sufficiency

Living in the country can offer a greater sense of self-sufficiency, with the ability to grow your own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. My husband and I have dreamed for years of having our own homestead. While half an acre isn’t enough land to truly accomplish this, it will still be a rewarding and empowering experience. I am excited that we will have a greater connection to the food we eat and the environment around us.

5. Lower Cost of Living

The cost of living in the country can be significantly lower than in urban areas, with lower property prices, utility bills, and grocery costs. This is definitely true for our move ad the biggest reason for our own move! The sale of our house in the suburbs actually paid outright for our house in the country. This allowed for greater financial freedom–my ability to stay home and homeschool our son– and the ability to live a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle.