Downsizing to Upsize Your Life: Making the Move to Small Town Living

Congratulations! You’ve decided to swap your life in a bigger city for the slower pace of a small town. Although this move can prove to be a bold leap toward upsizing your quality of life, it is not without its quirks. Moving to a place with less crime and minimal traffic may sound like a dream, but it comes with a catch – fewer shopping venues and essentials that may require a bit of a drive. But don’t worry; with some smart planning and a zest for local flavors, you’ll quickly adopt the local habit of sharing your new findings with everyone you meet. Below are a few hints to help you make a smooth transition.

Plan Ahead

First off, planning ahead is almost a necessity. Map out your shopping trips to ensure you’re not caught off guard when your pantry starts to echo. This isn’t just about groceries; consider all essentials and how often you’ll need to restock. It’s a small change that makes a big difference, ensuring you’re not spending more time in your car than enjoying your new home. A membership and monthly trip to Costco or Sam’s will go a long way to help to keep you well stocked up.

Prepare to Entertain

Prepare your home for entertainment. With fewer city distractions and dining choices, your home is now a place for friends, neighbors, and family gatherings. Invest in cozy, versatile spaces where laughter and stories can flow freely. A well-appointed backyard, a dedicated game room, or a cozy fire pit area can turn your home into the go-to place for memorable gatherings.

Volunteer & Be Social

Embracing the local community is key to thriving in your new rural setting. Small towns and villages often boast a tight-knit community vibe that’s hard to find in bustling cities. Dive into the local scene by attending social events or joining new groups, and participate in activities (like golf, tennis, hiking, fishing, etc.) that you have an interest in. This can be the best way to identify other neighbors that share the same interests as you and is a great way to build lasting friendships. Also consider volunteering in the community. This not only helps with providing a sense of purpose but gives you the opportunity to meet new friends and be active. These tips can be the best way to make meaningful connections and integrate into the social fabric of your new home.

Farmers Markets & Local Produce

Learn to embrace local produce and farmers markets. With our temperate climate, fresh produce can be found almost year around. This not only supports your new community but introduces you to fresh, seasonal flavors that can inspire your cooking. Farmer’s markets and local vendors become treasure troves of ingredients that can transform your meals and improve your health. You’ll find that adapting to these changes not only broadens your skills but may also enrich your lifestyle in unexpected ways.

Stay Digitally Connected

… but not too much! Days & nights can be quieter in rural areas but with our high-speed internet availability, you can take advantage of modern technology whenever needed. Keep your devices connected to work remotely, stream favorite shows, talk with friends and family, or surf the web.

Conclusion

We welcome you to your new chapter of living in a small town. Remember, the transition to rural living is a journey. With an open mind and a bit of resourcefulness, you’ll soon find yourself relishing the peace, natural beauty, and strong community bonds that country life has to offer. We hope you’ll find that every day brings the promise of peace, community, and a deeper sense of fulfillment. Enjoy!