Photo by Irene Rego on Unsplash
During the pandemic, fewer people have been moving to urban areas. The chances of catching the virus in crowded streets, the flexibility of remote working, and the prospect of going through another lockdown in a cramped apartment have made cities seem a little less desirable.
Instead, there has been an increase in people moving to suburban areas. There are so many positives to living in these areas, especially here in the Capital Region, but here are our top five.
1. Cheaper housing
It is no secret that choosing a house in the surrounding suburbs of your preferred city can save you a lot of money. In the U.S. the average monthly rent in urban areas is $1,848 compared to $1,269 in suburban areas. The money saved on rent whilst living in the suburbs can be put towards buying your own property in the future.
2. More space
Not only are house prices cheaper in suburban areas, but you also get more space for your money. The interest in spacious homes has become more prevalent since many among us have experienced the cramped conditions of our apartments during national lockdowns this year.
With the advent of remote working, more and more people are rethinking their homes and choosing larger properties outside of the city where they can convert a bedroom into an office space. People are also integrating dedicated home offices into their new construction homes to account for this shift in the work environment.
3. Safer
When people are considering a move to the suburbs, it is usually because they are looking to start a family. When we have a family, our priorities shift. What once was a cool, edgy apartment in the city center, now seems more dangerous or impractical.
Suburbs are often safer than cities and can offer a more nurturing environment than you would find in urban areas. Less traffic and noise are particularly appealing to those with young children and growing families.
4. Outdoor living
When it comes to raising children, another priority that parents have is access to outdoor spaces. Countless studies have shown the role that nature plays in tackling childhood obesity, helping children with attention deficit disorder, improving self-esteem, and promoting good emotional wellbeing.
Simply letting our kids play in nature without guidance or structure boosts problem-solving skills, cooperative skills, and self-awareness. When you’re exploring Capital Region homes for sale, pay attention to the outdoor space, including the lot size, slope, and privacy. Odds are your whole family will be able to take advantage of your yard!
5. More community
There is often a strong sense of community in suburban areas. There are fewer people living in one space so it is more likely that you will know your neighbors. Feeling like you are part of a community provides a sense of belonging, can bring a deeper sense of purpose to our everyday lives, and can reduce the risk of mental illness.
There are many advantages to living in the suburbs, particularly in the Capital Region. When deciding where to live, make sure you consider all of the above factors. Contact one of our 518 real estate agents when you’re ready to take the next step in the home buying process!