Urban vs. Suburban Living: What’s Right for You?

If you’ve ever had the urban vs. suburban living debate with yourself, you’re not alone. This is a conversation that many would-be homeowners have when they’re looking at purchasing property. While there are many great benefits of both urban and suburban living, we’re here to help you decide which is best for you.

Urban vs. Suburban Living: The Pros and Cons

Urban Living

• The pros: The pros of urban living are many. Amenities are close, attractions are many, and it’s not difficult to get out and meet people. What’s more, homes appreciate much more rapidly in cities, so purchasing real estate in an urban area is a great idea for homeowners looking to get the most bang for their buck. According to Realtor, homes in cities have risen in value by 11.3% within the last year. Because of this, it’s smart for homeowners to consider urban areas over suburban ones when searching for investment properties.

• The cons: Living in an urban area means you’ll have neighbors everywhere, things like food, entertainment, and transportation will be more expensive, and you’ll likely have to contend with lines, traffic, and public transit.

Suburban Living

• The pros: With few exceptions, suburban neighborhoods have the best schools, the highest number of community trail systems, and the highest quality of life. While city air may be polluted, suburban air is often fresh and clean. While city dwellers contend with traffic jams and squishy rides on the subway, suburban residents enjoy private commutes in the company of a favorite radio show or podcast. Finally, it’s also easier (and less expensive) to find homes with yards, garages, and space to spread out in an urban area. 

• The cons: When you live in a suburban neighborhood, high-quality entertainment may mean a commute, and it’s not nearly as easy to pop down the street for some tasty ethnic food or a show at that hot new theater. This is discouraging for many people, although it’s also exactly what draws a fair number of residents to the suburbs in the first place.

The Final Decision

While living in the city appeals to many people, hundreds of residents each year choose to trade urban life in for community trails and quiet cafes. Ultimately, the decision of urban vs. suburban living and which is best for you boils down to your priorities, goals, and desires. Both have many wonderful things to offer!