Top 10 Benefits of Living in a Small Town

A small-town lifestyle is most often a happy one. Community, peacefulness, slower pace, and typically lower cost of living are just a few benefits. Here are the top 10 reasons to live in a small town.

10. Lower Cost-of-Living

white and red wooden house beside grey framed magnifying glass — Photo by Tierra Mallorca

Most people gravitate toward metropolitan areas for employment reasons. Demand for housing and other services drives prices up. Because small towns and rural areas are in less demand, housing prices can be $100K to $300K lower than in big cities. Property taxes are generally lower also. Likewise, costs for many services and goods can also be lower.

9. Less Traffic

aerial view of green trees and houses during daytime — Photo by Gene Gallin

It’s all a matter of numbers. With fewer people residing in smaller towns, there is less traffic. With fewer cars on the road, there is less noise, pollution, and collisions. There are also lower rates of vandalism and vehicle theft. Living in an area where these risks are reduced can save you money on auto insurance.

8. Nature in Your Backyard

a road lined with trees and grass next to a forest — Photo by Aung Myint Oo

In most major metro areas, there’s hardly a spot that isn’t covered in concrete. But living in a small town, there’s much more, if not mostly, undeveloped land. That means nature is right in your backyard. You’re likely to find an abundance of hiking and biking trails, as well as other outdoor activities. Depending on the area, wildlife may also be plentiful.

7. Focus on Experiences Over Materialism

aerial photography of flowers at daytime — Photo by Joel Holland

Younger people and many others have moved toward the trend of minimalism and prioritizing experiences over materialism. A small-town lifestyle encourages this mindset. With nature in your backyard, experiences are waiting to be had everywhere. It’s more affordable to live, which may allow you to work fewer hours and have more free time for experiences and others.

6. Slower Paced Living

a tree next to a train track — Photo by Rosemary Williams

In major metropolitan areas, the fast-paced, hustle-and-bustle lifestyle keeps people in a hurry. So much time is spent commuting and waiting in lines. But small towns are the opposite. Less traffic and no crowds result in a slower pace of life that greatly reduces overall stress. Small towns allow you to slow down, find peace, and quiet your mind.

5. Less Pollution

woman in blue shirt sitting on white boat during daytime — Photo by A n v e s h

Large metro areas, with their higher density of automobiles, are plagued with air pollution. Research suggests that the ozone and nitrogen dioxide put off by automobiles can cause more airway inflammation, inducing adverse effects for allergy and asthma sufferers. Moving to a small town will limit exposure to these pollutants, potentially reducing irritants for those with allergies and asthma.

4. Locally-Owned Businesses

cars parked in front of red brick building — Photo by Simon Ray

Big chain stores tend to operate only in larger markets. In small towns, the businesses you’re likely to find will be locally owned. Such businesses are usually established to meet a need in that community. Locally-owned businesses tend to offer a higher level of customer service because their existence depends on it.

3. Less Noise and Crime

flag of USA on grass field — Photo by Aaron Burden

In a small town, not only is there less traffic, but fewer people are moving about before sunrise, allowing you to sleep more soundly. Also, unlike big cities, statistically, small towns have much lower incidents of crime. Small towns have around 48% lower crime rates than larger cities, according to a 2024 study by MoneyGeek, which drew from FBI stats.

2. Purposeful Connections and Community

a large ferris wheel sitting in the middle of a street — Photo by Walter Martin

Many young people are focused on a purposeful life rather than material gain. Purpose starts with connection: Family, friends, and community. This is an area where small towns excel. In big cities, people don’t know their neighbors. In small towns, people know and help their neighbors. Research suggests such connections create positive emotions.

1. A Simpler Life

A baby deer standing on top of a lush green field — Photo by Charly Seyler

Life in big cities is complicated. Crowding and regulations make everything a hassle. Small towns are just the opposite. There is more space and freedom. The slower pace of life allows you to step back and enjoy simplified day-to-day living. It gives you the space to focus on your values, priorities, and what really matters.