For over a decade, my family and I navigated the bustling life of large cities—Los Angeles and New York City, to be specific. When our eldest child was nearing 14 and our youngest was just 5, we took the plunge and relocated to a quaint town with a population of 30,000—predominantly students—nestled amidst sprawling farmlands. The nearest major city is a good hour and a half away. While this new place isn’t exactly a one-stoplight town, it certainly represents a significant departure from city life.
As someone who grew up in a small town and whose husband hails from a locale of 8,000, I was apprehensive about the move. My early experiences in a small town left me feeling that the drawbacks outweighed the benefits. However, it turned out that our chosen town had much more to offer than the ones from our past. After two years here, I’ve uncovered both the advantages and a few drawbacks of raising kids in a small town.
Pros of Raising Kids in a Small Town
- Safety
Moving to a place where many of my neighbors don’t feel the need to lock their doors was an odd but comforting experience. While I understand that crime can happen anywhere, the safety here is notably higher than even in the safer suburbs of New York. It’s a reassuring luxury to know that my children can play outside without constant worry.
- Traffic
Living in a city like New York, we spent countless hours in traffic jams. Now, crossing town takes a mere 10 minutes. There’s a shopping town 15 minutes away, and a Costco about 30 minutes away. Rush hour here is practically nonexistent—more like a brief 15-minute delay. The absence of traffic planning has been a welcome change.
- Community
While we had a network of family and friends in the city, the sense of community often felt scattered. Here, even with many transient residents due to the nearby university, there’s a tangible sense of belonging. The small-town connections foster a spirit of cooperation that is truly delightful.
- Simplicity
I initially worried that moving would limit our access to activities, but I’ve found that fewer options can actually be liberating. With fewer museums, parks, and extracurricular activities, life feels simpler. Less choice means less decision fatigue, leading to more enjoyable outings with the family.
Cons of Raising Kids in a Small Town
- Limited Diversity
Our town’s university does bring a level of cultural variety, but it’s still not on par with the rich diversity found in larger cities. I don’t want my kids to grow up with just a handful of friends from different backgrounds. Diversity is crucial to us, so we actively seek out cultural events at the university to broaden their horizons. For more insights on this topic, check out one of our other blog posts here.
- Fewer Opportunities
While having fewer choices simplifies life, it can be disheartening when my kids express interest in activities that aren’t available locally. We can usually find most things, but not everything. If your child dreams of being a trapeze artist, they may be out of luck. Long drives are often required for major events, like concerts or operas.
- Missing the City
There’s a unique energy to city life that is hard to replicate. While I appreciate the peace and quiet, I sometimes miss the stunning skyline of New York City, the vibrant street life, and the thrill of urban exploration. The excitement of taking the kids to experience all that the city has to offer is something I truly cherish.
- Less Complexity
While simplicity is important, complexity also offers valuable life lessons. I sometimes worry about what we’re missing by stepping away from the hustle of city living—like learning to navigate public transportation or experiencing world-class cultural events. I wonder if we’re depriving our kids of crucial experiences.
Ultimately, every location has its own set of pros and cons. It’s unlikely to find a place that encompasses every ideal for raising children. Having experienced both urban and small-town life, I appreciate the benefits and acknowledge the trade-offs. I believe that neither choice is inherently better; rather, it’s about how we make the most of our circumstances. We can help our kids thrive in their surroundings and equip them with the skills they need for whatever life brings. Whether in a bustling city or a peaceful town, we can create a nurturing environment that they will always return to.
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Summary
Raising kids in a small town presents a mix of advantages and challenges. The safety, community feel, and simplicity can be incredibly appealing. However, the lack of diversity, limited opportunities, and occasional pangs of nostalgia for city life are valid concerns. Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance and making the best of the environment we choose for our families.
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