essay living in the countryside

Essays About the Countryside: Top 5 Examples And Prompts

Escaping to the great outdoors offers a breath of fresh air. If you are writing essays about the countryside, here are examples and prompts to inspire you.

The countryside is our most natural environment and offers tranquillity to millions. Many of us know the benefit of a trip to a quiet beach, a remote village, or a hike in the mountains. In our fast-paced world, visiting the countryside can provide peace and serenity.

Nature, rural life, and the countryside are sources of inspiration for writers and have helped some of the most prolific authors conceive and perfect their works. Our natural world has been the setting of beloved, timeless classics, such as A Year in Provence, Wuthering Heights, and The Darling Buds of May, to name a few.

If you are required to write a great essay about the countryside, have a look at some of the essay examples listed below.

1. Growing Up on the Farm by Loren Pool

2. a country childhood: growing up in rural suffolk by abbey ellis, 3. the blissful province life by carol padua montero, 4. through the eyes of a farm kid by molly schmitt, 5. the magic of growing up by the sea…and why you’ll never be quite as happy anywhere else by rebecca ley, 1. what is the countryside to you, 2. how can the countryside form you as a person, 3. why is the countryside so idealized in literature, 4. should you move to the countryside.

“As time passed on the farm, more neighbors built homes and moved in. They had children closer to my age, and we all became fast friends. The farms became our playgrounds. Those friendships have been a lifelong connection that we still have today. We played in the silo, the haystacks, and the cattle fields. I’ll bet that some went home with a little cow poop on them. More than once, we had “cow pie training.” It was a good time that I was able to share with a lot of friends.”

In this article, Pool reminisces on his rural countryside upbringing on the family farm. He remembers the activities he took part in, the lessons learned, and most importantly, the connections he made. He also laments the continuing disappearance of family farms across the country as the world becomes more advanced and feels sad for all the children who will not be able to have the same experiences as he did growing up on the farm. 

“If the photographs in this picture aren’t enough to convince you, the countryside really is a beautiful place to grow up. When you’re a child, you definitely don’t feel sufficiently grateful for the beauty all around you, but now, I appreciate it all the more. East Anglia is full of tiny, picturesque villages, and even the cities are lovely. Norwich will always be one of my favourite places for a day out. The lack of light pollution at night time is another wonderful aspect of countryside living. Being able to gaze up at the beautiful stars on a clear evening is a magical experience, something I definitely wouldn’t trade.”

Ellis explores aspects of rural living based on her own childhood in Suffolk, England. She remembers the inconveniences she experienced and, in contrast, recalls the peace and beauty she observed in the countryside and the lessons she learned there. She ultimately concludes that after having lived in both the country and the city, she would not trade the life of her childhood; however, she would also be comfortable in a small village with some semblance of urban living.

“Life brings simple pleasures. Simple pleasures are the most satisfying that life has to offer. The morning coffee, being outside under a warm blue sky, hanging out with loved ones after dinner, a beautiful view, having a good laugh, sleeping in on a rainy day. There are lots of things to be satisfied about. The province life is living a simple but carefree life.”

This reflection is author Carol Padua Montero’s retelling of the time that she and her partner Neil visited her childhood home in Aurora province in the Philippines. She recalls their activities, their food, and the simple joys of being with family and nature. She emphasizes the easygoing manner of provincial Filipinos: despite not having as much, they live a happy life. 

“On our 300-cow dairy, we are in full swing chopping and baling hay, which means long days full of fieldwork and scrambling to fit chores and milking in between sun-up and sun-down. One of the best parts? Watching my nieces and nephews soak in all the craziness in the most innocent of ways. Their disbelief at how tall the corn is, how massive the pile of silage gets, or how much a calf’s tongue tickles as it licks them reminds me just how amazing our job is.”

Molly Schmitt describes her life as a farmer and as a “farm kid” in the countryside, where she has spent her whole life. She details her daily routine with her family and her children, but the most dominant part of her essay is about her own childhood. She recalls ten childhood memories that she cherishes dearly, involving family, food, and, of course, the farm. 

“There is a beautiful sandy beach on your doorstep, replete with endless rockpools. And all you have to do is to fling open the front door and walk for five minutes, and you’re on top of a cliff, with 180-degree views of the sea, salt wind in your face.”

Ley’s reflection on country life is quite introspective, as she remembers her life by the sea as a child, particularly the house she was raised in. She remembers how she felt in the serene, idyllic setting, exploring both the highs and lows of living there. But she comes to feel conflicted over the house as her mother considers selling it. She ultimately resigns to the idea of having to let go of that house after so many years, teaching us all a lesson about moving on. 

4 Writing Prompts On Essays about the Countryside

Your personal experience may provide the best inspiration. Reflect on your experiences of the countryside, and think about how it makes you feel— happy, sad, scared, or lonely? Do not let others’ experiences influence you; focus on yourself. And if necessary, take a trip to the countryside and get some fresh perspective.

Many of the writers above mention in their essays or articles that the countryside taught them valuable life lessons. Consider the differences between everyday events in the country and the city. For example, growing up or going to school in either environment. How might these events compare and impact you?

As stated previously, the countryside is the setting of some of the most famous tales of all time. What draws authors to romanticize the countryside and make it the location of their story? You can also connect this to your own feelings toward the countryside. Do your feelings complement or contradict the author’s narrative?

This is a great argumentative essay topic to write about. List the advantages and disadvantages of country living and conclude whether it would be beneficial to live in the countryside or not. There is a wealth of research on the benefits of living in the countryside that you can draw on.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips !

Martin is an avid writer specializing in editing and proofreading. He also enjoys literary analysis and writing about food and travel.

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17 Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in the Countryside

Living in the countryside has always been a topic of great debate.

Some people love the peace and tranquility that rural living offers, while others are more attracted to the hustle and bustle of urban areas.

In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of living in the countryside, as well as the pros and cons of moving from the city to a rural area.

• Redaction Team
• October 2, 2023
• Body , Personal Development

Advantages of Living in the Countryside

• Natural Beauty : Countryside living often provides access to stunning natural landscapes, including forests, mountains, lakes, and open fields, which can be aesthetically pleasing and provide opportunities for outdoor activities.
• Peace and Quiet : Rural areas tend to be quieter and less congested than cities, making it an ideal environment for those who value peace and tranquility.
• Cleaner Air : Countryside areas typically have cleaner air and lower pollution levels than urban areas, which can lead to better overall health and a higher quality of life.
• Community and Close-Knit Relationships : Rural communities often have strong social bonds and close-knit relationships among residents, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
• Lower Cost of Living : In many cases, the cost of living in the countryside is lower than in cities, including housing costs, property taxes, and general expenses.
• Access to Fresh Food : Rural areas often have access to locally grown or produced fresh food, which can lead to healthier eating options.
• Less Traffic and Congestion : Countryside living typically involves less traffic congestion and shorter commutes, reducing stress and saving time.
• Outdoor Activities : Rural areas offer abundant opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, gardening, and wildlife watching.

Disadvantages of Living in the Countryside

• Limited Amenities : Countryside areas may lack the amenities, entertainment options, and cultural activities that cities offer. Access to healthcare, schools, and shopping centers may also be limited.
• Limited Job Opportunities : Finding employment opportunities in rural areas can be challenging, especially in specialized or high-paying fields, which may necessitate long commutes or remote work.
• Limited Healthcare Facilities : Rural areas may have fewer healthcare facilities and specialists, which can be a concern for individuals with complex medical needs.
• Isolation : Some people may feel isolated or lonely in rural areas, especially if they are far from friends and family.
• Education : The quality of education in rural areas can vary, and there may be fewer educational resources and extracurricular activities for children.
• Internet and Connectivity : Rural areas may have limited access to high-speed internet and modern technology, which can be a disadvantage in a digital age.
• Transportation : Public transportation options are often limited in the countryside, which can be inconvenient for those who rely on it.
• Distance to Services : Access to essential services like hospitals, police, and fire departments may require longer travel times in rural areas.
• Environmental Factors : Living in the countryside may expose individuals to certain environmental factors such as wildlife encounters, extreme weather conditions, and natural disasters.

One of the main advantages of living in the countryside is the lower cost of living. Moving to the country side In rural areas, the cost of housing, food, and other expenses tends to be much lower compared to urban areas. This means that people can enjoy a higher standard of living with a smaller budget. Additionally, country living offers more space and bigger properties compared to cramped urban homes.

Another advantage of living in the countryside is the slower pace of life. Unlike in the city where everything is fast-paced and rushed, rural areas allow people to take a step back and appreciate the simpler things in life. The countryside offers a closer connection to nature, with beautiful landscapes and the opportunity to grow your own food. This can lead to a more sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle.

Living in the countryside also has potential health benefits. Research has shown that people that live in the country side in rural areas tend to have lower stress levels compared to those in urban areas. The peaceful environment and access to outdoor spaces can contribute to improved mental well-being. Additionally, the lack of pollution in rural areas may lead to better air quality, which can have positive effects on overall health.

While there are many advantages to living in the countryside, it is important to consider the disadvantages as well. One major drawback is the limited job opportunities. Rural areas typically have fewer employment options compared to urban areas. This means that those looking to live in the countryside may face challenges in finding suitable employment, particularly in specialized fields.

Another disadvantage of rural living is the longer commute. In the countryside, amenities such as supermarkets and medical facilities are often further away, requiring people to travel longer distances for basic necessities. This can be especially problematic for individuals who rely on public transportation or do not own a vehicle.

In addition to limited job opportunities and longer commutes, rural areas may also lack certain services and activities that are more readily available in urban areas. This includes access to cultural events, entertainment venues, and diverse dining options. So, people who prefer a vibrant social life and a wide range of recreational activities may not find it as fulfilling to live in the countryside.

Pros and Cons of Moving to the Countryside

Moving from the city to the countryside is a big decision and it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons before making the move. One of the major advantages is the opportunity to escape the fast-paced city life and enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed environment. This can lead to a better quality of life, particularly for individuals who are looking to slow down and appreciate nature.

Another advantage of moving to the countryside is the chance to live in a close-knit rural community. In rural areas, people tend to have stronger social connections and a greater sense of community. This can provide a support system and a greater sense of belonging, which can be especially beneficial for families with children or individuals looking for a tight-knit network.

However, it is important to consider the potential disadvantages as well. One of the main challenges of moving to the countryside is the limited job opportunities. As mentioned earlier, rural areas typically have fewer employment options, which may require individuals to commute long distances or even consider a career change. The lower cost of living should also be weighed against the potential decrease in income.

Another disadvantage to consider is the distance from amenities and services. While the countryside offers a peaceful environment, it may require individuals to travel longer distances for everyday needs. This includes grocery shopping, medical appointments, and access to entertainment options. This can be a major adjustment for those used to the convenience and accessibility of city living.

Conclusion of Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in the Countryside

Living in the countryside has its advantages and disadvantages. It offers a lower cost of living, a slower pace of life, and potential health benefits. 

However, it may also come with limited job opportunities, longer commutes, and a lack of amenities and services.

Ultimately, the decision to live in the countryside or the city depends on individual preferences and priorities. It is important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each option before making a move.

Read more about the advantages and disadvantages of rural areas .

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What Life is Living in the Countryside (All You Need to Know!)

Living in the countryside is fantastic! You get plenty of space, and it’s usually cheaper than living in the city. Plus, you’re surrounded by nature! Imagine waking up every day to fresh air and the sound of birds singing. It’s the best feeling ever!

This article provides insights into the experience of living in rural areas. It discusses life in the countryside and highlights the unique aspects of rural living that set it apart from urban living.

Ready to take a breath of fresh country air? Keep reading!

Table of Contents [ Hide ]

The Reality of Countryside Living

Benefits of living in the countryside, tips before moving to the countryside, the challenges of countryside living, misconceptions about living in the countryside, final thoughts.

Delving into the countryside, living unfolds an unexpected blend of simplicity and richness far removed from the city bustles’s realm where space stretches wide, and the rhythms of nature dictate a life more attuned to authenticity and serenity.

Peace and Quiet

Living in the countryside means you can say goodbye to city noises: no more honking cars, rumbling subways, or loud neighbors. Instead, wake up to birds singing and the wind in the trees.

The quiet is good for your mental health, too. Studies show that less noise reduces stress and anxiety, and you’ll enjoy nights under clear skies instead of bright city lights. Plus, cleaner air means breathing easier and fewer health problems from pollution. After enjoying the calmness, think about the next perk: greater freedom awaits outside your door.

Greater Freedom

In the countryside, there is plenty of room to roam. This means more space for gardens, workshops, big pets, and outdoor projects. You can make noise without bothering the neighbors or choose peace and quiet whenever possible.

Many people who move to rural areas feel a strong sense of freedom. They do things their way and don’t have as many rules to follow.

With this freedom comes privacy, which is hard to find in the city. Your home can be your private retreat away from prying eyes. You don’t have to close curtains or worry about being too loud for those around you.

Enjoy clear night skies without streetlights dimming the stars, or relax in your yard without onlookers. Countryside living lets you live life on your terms with fewer restrictions.

Closer Connection to Nature

Living in the countryside brings you face-to-face with nature every day. Trees, wildlife, and fresh air become your regular companions. You might plant a garden or walk through forests just outside your door.

Naturis isn’t something you visit; it’s where you live.

Your days may start with the sound of birds and end with a sunset over open fields. Kids learn about animals, not from books but by seeing them roam around their homes. Life moves to the rhythm of the seasons, reminding you of the simple beauty that surrounds us all.

Lower Upfront Costs

Houses in the countryside cost less to buy than in the city. You can get a big, comfortable home without spending much money first. Shops and dinners out also don’t hurt your wallet as much.

Living in rural areas means you keep more cash in your pocket from the start.

Reduced Cost of Living

Living in the countryside slashes your expenses. Amenities, shops, and nights out cost less than in the city, so your money goes further for entertainment and daily needs. Eating at local restaurants or buying from farmers’ markets often has a smaller price tag.

Heating your home can be cheaper, too. Many rural areas use eco-friendly energy sources like solar panels, which cut down on utility bills each month. Plus, you might save on transportation costs by enjoying walks or bike rides instead of constant driving.

More Spacious Homes

Saving on daily expenses lets you stretch out in a bigger home. In the countryside, houses often come with more rooms and big yards. You can live where your kids have space to play, and you can garden or enjoy the open air.

Big homes in rural areas cost less than cramped city apartments.

With extra room, you might decide to raise animals or start a workshop. Think of having a guest room or an art studio! Owning land also means taking care of it. Remember, more space requires work like mowing lawns and trimming trees.

But for many, this is part of the country’s charm.

Embrace a lifestyle that naturally boosts your well-being. Fresh air and open spaces contribute to mental and physical health improvements—delight in a community-centric environment where sustainable living and outdoor adventures become part of your daily routine.

Improved mental and physical health

Living in the countryside boosts your health. Fresh air and quiet surroundings help reduce stress. You get more privacy and freedom, which can make you feel happier. Being close to nature also helps your mood and lets you relax more easily.

Country life encourages outdoor activity. You might grow a garden or take long walks. These activities benefit your heart and muscles; breathing cleaner air helps your lungs stay strong.

Living with less pollution reduces your risk of health problems, too.

Opportunities for outdoor activities: You’ll love the countryside’s fresh air and open spaces. Hike through the woods, bike up rolling hills, or catch fish in a nearby stream. Watch birds soar high and deer roam freely.

You can grow your garden or explore nature trails any day.

Next, consider how simple life gets away from the city’s hustle.

Simpler and more sustainable lifestyle

Living in the countryside often means you can have a garden. You might grow vegetables, plant fruit trees, and even keep chickens on just a quarter of an acre. This gives you fresh food right from your backyard! Many people use solar energy to power their homes.

They get free electricity from the sun instead of relying only on energy grids. Heating isn’t always needed since wood stoves can warm up country houses.

Country life also encourages reusing and recycling. Second-hand stores are treasure troves for clothes and home goods. People fix things rather than throw them away. With these habits, you care for the earth daily without even trying hard!

Strong sense of community

Moving from a simple and sustainable lifestyle, the countryside offers something special: a tight-knit community. Neighbors know each other by name and look out for one another. You find yourself waving to familiar faces and stopping for friendly chats.

In rural areas, people come together to celebrate, help in need, or work on projects that benefit everyone. Shared experiences create bonds that are tough to find in bigger cities.

Hereyou’rere not just another face in the crowd; you are part of a community that cares.

Before you pack up and embrace the pastoral dream, you must give yourself a few essential tips to smooth the transition. Uncover what it takes to thrive amidst the tranquil expanses of countryside living—practical wisdom awaits those ready for a life less ordinary.

Try before you buy

Rent a home in the countryside for a while. This lets you see if you like it before making a big move. Spending time in rural areas can show you how different life is from the city.

Get to know your neighbors and learn what life there is really like. Some people who try country life end up moving back to town. Make sure that won’t be you by experiencing it first-hand.

Living full-time, where the air is cleaner and open spaces are plentiful, can seem dreamy, but practicality matters, too. You’ll need good internet for work or to stay connected. A short stay lets you check the broadbanconnection’s strength, which is essential for your tasks or entertainment needs.

Grit and patience are essential, as not everything will be at your fingertips, like in urban settings.

Be open to old ideas.

After spending time in the countryside, “try before you buy,” keep your mind flexible. Old ideas often thrive here, and for good reason. They’ve shaped the lives of generations of farmers and local communities. You’ll notice traditional methods in agriculture, community gatherings, and even problem-solving. Embrace these proven practices; they can teach resilience and resourcefulness.

Life isn’t always quiet on farms or peaceful in fields, as many expect. Hard work happens around the clock, with noisy machinery and livestock making their presence known. By valuing older ways of living, you join a rhythm that has sustained the countryside through years of change.

This openness will also help build strong bonds with neighbors who cherish this wisdom passed down through the ages.

Be loyal to your local

Embracing the wisdom of long-held traditions leads to another vital aspect of countryside living: supporting local businesses . Shop at small stores, eat at nearby restaurants, and hire local tradespeople.

This commitment keeps the community vibrant and helps everyone thrive.

Join in on town events and volunteer when you can. Your presence means a lot and bolsters the ties that make country living unique. By being loyal to your locals, you contribute to a network of support that benefits all residents, including yourself.

Make connections

Building connections in the countryside is vital. Get to know your neighbors and join local events. This will give you a support network and make you feel at home. Shop from local farmers and stores to help your community thrive.

After settling in, consider how you dress for country life.

Get the garb

Your closet will need a makeover in the countryside. Grab some durable wellies for muddy fields and rainy days. Add warm socks to keep your toes cozy. A wax jacket is also a must-have. It’s tough against the wind and rain.

Dressing right makes life out here much better.

Your daily outfit should match country life. Think rugged, weather-proof, and comfortable. Don’t forget hats and gloves for cold mornings. With these items, you’re ready to tackle outdoor work or enjoy a peaceful walk no matter what the sky decides to do that day!

Brace yourself

Life in the countryside can be full of surprises, so steel your nerves. You’ll face a no-nonsense attitude towards animals and wildlife. It’s part of daily life out here. Learn to expect the unexpected, from sudden storms to encounters with nature’s critters.

Prepare for different types of weather, too. Your reliable car will become your best friend on snowy mornings or muddy roads. Embrace these changes as part of the adventure of rural living!

Get decent wheels

You need an excellent car to go out in the countryside. Roads can get rough, and public transport might not reach your doorstep. Think about winter snow, muddy spring roads, or even a big grocery haul – your vehicle must handle everything.

Look for something sturdy and reliable that won’t let you down when you’re miles from the nearest mechanic. With nearly one-third of people wanting rural homes post-pandemic, don’t underestimate how vital your wheels are.

Choose a car with four-wheel drive if you can. It makes a difference on slippery or uneven terrain. Keep up with regular maintenance, too; oil changes and tire checks go a long way in preventing breakdowns.

A well-kept car ensures you stay connected despite living far from town centers. Your safety and convenience depend on solid transportation year-round, especially when dealing with challenging road conditions mentioned in our important facts section.

Be wary of buying land.

Buying land in the countryside requires careful thought. If you plan to farm, check the soil to ensure it is not polluted or hard to work with. Learn about any rules for using the land.

Some places have strict laws that could stop your plans. Look into access to water and electricity too. These might be harder to get in rural areas.

Ask locals for advice before making a big purchase like this. They know the land and can tell you about hidden problems. Also, consider how far you are from hospitals, schools, and stores when choosing a plot of land.

Go with the flow

Life in the countryside will feel different. At first, it might seem harsh to adjust. You may miss the city’s bustle. In time, though, you’ll start to appreciate the calm of rural areas.

The key is to adapt and not resist changes. Find new routines and ways to enjoy your days.

Let yourself embrace local traditions and activities. Give yourself a chance to see things from a fresh perspective. This can lead you to value what the countryside offers even more deeply.

After all, about half of people who move out here end up craving city life again because they didn’t fully embrace country living.

Now’s look at some of the challenges of this lifestyle change.

While living in the countryside offers a peaceful retreat, it’s not without its hurdles; you might find fewer job prospects and more limited access to transportation, which could impact how you engage in your favorite pastimes.

Remember, these aspects are critical when considering the quieter life away from the city bustle.

Fewer Professional Opportunities

In the countryside, big businesses and industries are rare. This means jobs can be hard to find, especially in specialized fields. If you’re aiming for a career with a significant company, living rural might limit your chances.

Internet connection speeds may not keep up with city standards either. Poor internet could slow down work-from-home jobs or online networking.

You’ll find many headquarters of leading companies nestled among the trees and hills. Rural areas often miss out on the resources that city workers rely on, like high-speed broadband needed for professional growth.

Without this access, staying competitive in specific job markets becomes tough. Plus, reaching out to contacts or going to business meetings usually means traveling farther – which adds time and cost to your work life.

Limited Transportation Options

Living in the countryside means you may not find many buses or trains. You’ll need an excellent car to get around, especially when roads can be challenging in different seasons. Getting to work, school, or the store takes planning without reliable public transport.

Your car needs to handle snow, rain, and unpaved paths. Some people love driving through nature every day. But you’re used to hopping on a bus or catching a train, so this change might take some time to get used to.

Driving has become part of daily life outside the city. Before heading out, always ensure your car is ready for any weather. There aren’t as many taxis or rideshare options as Uber, either.

So, having backup plans is brilliant if your car ever breaks down. Living far from cities can make even simple trips longer than expected!

Limited Hobby Options

Having fewer buses or trains means you might also find fewer clubs or classes for hobbies. In the countryside, meeting people who share your interests can be challenging. You won’t see as many art galleries, dance studios, or book clubs as in the city.

This might mean traveling further to enjoy your favorite pastimes or trying new local activities. It’s been an excellent chance to explore different sides of yourself and maybe discover hidden talents! But prepare for less variety and more self-driven hobbies like hiking, gardening, or bird-watching using beautiful natural surroundings.

Exploring the countryside lifestyle unearths many myths, from isolation to outdated technology, but sticks around to uncover the surprising truths behind rural living.

Living Completely Off-Grid

Living off-grid means breaking free from utility grids and making your power. Don’t rely on the usual city services for electricity, water, or internet. This lifestyle gets you closer to nature and can lead to a peaceful small-town life with lots of open space. It’s essential to do your research before making this big move.

Choose wisely where you live off-grid. Consider how remote you want to be and what natural resources are available. You will be responsible for generating energy, finding water sources, and dealing with waste.

A well-thought-out plan will help ensure your home meets all your needs without the grid’s help.

Distance from Amenities

Country life means stores and clinics are farther away. You might have to drive miles for milk or a doctor’s visit. Without many buses or trains, getting to these places takes effort.

Living far from everyday needs can be challenging. But with planning, you’ll manage the trips for groceries and healthcare just fine.

Internet Connection Limitations

Living in the countryside doesn’t mean you’ll have slow internet. Many rural homes get fast WIFI because fewer people are sharing the bandwidth. But sometimes, the connection can be less reliable than in cities.

If your countryside home has weak internet access, you’ve got options. You can choose fiber, standard DSL, mobile broadband, satellite, fixed wireless, and bonded broadband to stay connected.

Moving on to another hot topic, homeschooling isn’t a must just because you live in a more remote area.

Homeschooling Necessity

Adjusting to slower internet in the countryside may lead families to consider homeschooling. This choice can be challenging due to noise from nearby agricultural work and the time needed for land management.

Country living means embracing challenges, including those tied to education. Nearly half of rural newcomers think about returning to the city, often because of schooling difficulties.

Homeschooling isn’t just an option; sometimes, it’s a must in remote areas. Families need patience and resources as they adapt their routines to the country’s demands. It takes planning and commitment, but many find this path rewarding, growing closer through shared learning experiences.

Live in the countryside and find a calm pace. Enjoy more room, fresh air, and nature’s beauty every day. Save money on homes, food, and fun out of town. Connect with neighbors to feel a strong community bond.

Embrace new outdoor hobbies; they’re good for your soul! Start your country adventure now; it could change your life.

You May Also Like

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of a Country Wife

All About the Countryside – The Pros and Cons of Living Rural

• Pinterest 42

When you think about living in the country, you think peaceful and serene.  You picture being surrounded by nature without a care in the world.  But, is it really all it’s cracked up to be?  Today I’m going to be talking all about the countryside, and the pros and cons of living rural .

I’ve lived in all kinds of environments – cities, small towns, and in the country.  There really are perks with each, however my favorite place to live is in the country .  Given my blog name, I’m sure that’s no surprise to you!

But, living in the country isn’t all roses and sunshine every single moment.  There are some days that are hard.  There are some days that I know would be easier if I lived closer to amenities.

Thankfully, the pros outweigh the cons to me in country living.  But honestly, it’s really personal preference and what’s important to you when it comes to the best place you and your family should live.  Let’s dive into the good AND the bad about the countryside.

ALL ABOUT THE COUNTRYSIDE

This post contains affiliate links.  See our full disclosure policy HERE.

PROS ABOUT LIVING IN THE COUNTRY

It’s quiet and peaceful..

Some people love the buzz of the city.  Me? I love to sit out in my backyard and hear absolutely nothing but the birds or the wind swaying through the trees.

If you love a quiet environment, the country is a perfect place to live.  No sound of constant traffic and there isn’t people everywhere.  You don’t often hear sirens or construction.

When I need to be alone with my thoughts, when my heart feels heavy because the news is all bad, I go outside and take in a sunset in utter quiet, or I walk down my road and soak in all that is around me in the peaceful moment.

For my heart, the quiet and peacefulness is perfect.

It gives you many outdoor opportunities.

Country properties make it easy to do things outdoors like have bonfires, start a garden, raise some animals, go atving, and more!  There is no limit to all the things you can do in the country!

Even if you don’t have the means to do everything you want on your property, often you can find it close by.  If you live in the country you may be closer to a lake for fishing, boating, or swimming.  Or you may live close to trails to go hiking and exploring.  There’s definitely plenty to do in the country that you won’t find yourself bored!

You might save money.

When I lived in the city there wasn’t much we could do that was free.  We often spent weekends shopping, going out to eat, or going to the movie theatre.  On top of that, there was the convenience of being able to hop to the store whenever we felt like it, or wanted a late night snack (and for foodies like us, that’s a serious temptation we struggled to avoid!)

When you live in the country many things you want to do, like I listed above, are free.  As well, it isn’t convenient to just run to the store.  You aren’t going to run to the grocery store at 9:00 at night just because you feel like a snack when it takes you 30 minutes to get there.

You learn to improvise, be prepared, and just stop spending as much money as when you had easy access to the stores.

Also, you may save money on housing as it is often cheaper in the country if it’s further enough away from the city.

It helps you slow down your life.

Life is busy no matter where you live these days, but there’s a certain type of “slowness” in the country that isn’t as easy to attain in the city.  For us we really limit extra-curriculars that the kids are involved in or even commitments we make ourselves because it takes a lot longer to drive anywhere.  We moved to the country to ENJOY the country and not to spend all our time driving around.

There’s a different kind of culture.

One of my favorite things I loved when we moved to the country is the way people loved to invite others over for a meal, or our church did the good ole’ fashioned potlucks.  In fact, since moving to the country I have only went out to eat at a restaurant a few times (and we’ve been here three years!)  Of course, our family goes out to eat because we enjoy it, but the culture out in the country is more of inviting someone into your home to share a meal instead of going out to the restaurants.  Let’s not forget how this saves you cash as well. 🙂

It’s an introvert’s dream

If you are an introvert the country can be a dream for you.  I once was an extrovert but over the years changed into an introvert and I have to say, I very much enjoy being alone.  I do enjoy hanging out with my friends, but I am pretty content to be alone too.  Living in the country gives me more time to be on my own (of course, when I say on my own, I mean with my three kids, cause, when you are a mom are you ever really alone?

BUT, LIKE I SAID, IT’S NOT ALL ROSES AND SUNSHINE.  LET’S BE REAL HERE AND LOOK AT THE CONS OF LIVING IN THE COUNTRY.

Cons about living in the country.

Just kidding. 🙂

It takes more time and gas money to get anywhere.

Driving anywhere in the country seems to take time and extra gas money.  Our closest stores to drive to are only 15 minutes away but they are tiny, small town stores that often don’t have what we need so we drive to the closest city which is 40 minutes away.  We knew by living in the country we’d have to be okay with the long distances to go anywhere and everywhere.

When we first moved out here we only had one vehicle which meant when my husband was at work I couldn’t go anywhere, so that can be an issue too if you are a one vehicle family.  We know have two vehicles and I gotta say, it’s really nice to have when you live in the country.

There’s a different culture out here.

Wait, Amanda, didn’t you just put this in the pros?  Well, yes I did. But it can be a pro or a con, depending on your personality.  If you love fast-paced, and enjoy hanging out in the restaurants with your friends, well, then you might not enjoy the country as much if you can’t find anyone to do those things with.

Services take longer to get out here.

When it snows our road is one of the last to see a snow plow.  When the power gets knocked out our area is one of the last on the priority list.  When I’m expecting a package it often gets delayed because it’s the last one on the route and didn’t make it in time, or they decide they don’t even want to come out this far and call me to arrange a pick-up instead.

Oh, and speaking of the power going out, if you have no power your toilets don’t flush.  That’s fine for an hour or two, but after 30 hours of no power, things get pretty dicey.  (Ask me how I know.)

We’ve learned to expect things take longer out here.  It’s just the way it is.

Slow internet – need I say more?

One of the major frustrations in this day and age is slow internet in the country.  Many of us use the internet for more than just pleasure.  We use it for work.  Our kids use it for school.  And so the slow internet is no longer a minor inconvenience, it actually affects some pretty important stuff.

It can be lonely.

If you love connecting with people, then living in the country can be lonely.  Heck, there can be times living in the country is lonely even for introverts who love being alone.  You definitely have to make a bigger effort to connect with others when you live in the country.

IS THE COUNTRYSIDE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Now that we’ve talked all about the countryside, the pros and cons, the question is – is it right for you?  Well, only you can answer that.  While I adore the country and plan to  live out here as long as I am physically able, I have friends who would just never be happy living in the country, and that’s okay.  We’re all different with unique personalities.  It would be pretty boring if we were all the same.

I do think, however, that we need to be careful not to romanticize country living without ever considering the negatives.  Every kind of life comes with some hardship and you have to decide what kind of trials you can live with.

Ultimately I believe the country is a peaceful, wonderful place and even if you can’t see yourself living there, maybe you can enjoy getting away from it all and taking a vacation in the country.

If you are seriously contemplating leaving the city and living in the country, check out this book to give you all the stuff you need to know on country living.

And if you decide that moving to the country isn’t for you, but you’d still like to get some time in the great outdoors, why not plan a camping trip?  Spending a few days in the woods can do your soul a world of good.

Related Posts

Winter on the Homestead

Living in the Country – 10 Things I’ve Learned

2 thoughts on “all about the countryside – the pros and cons of living rural”.

There is an assumption, countryside must be miles away from a city or town. Is it still countryside if you homestead approx. 3 miles from a major shopping center?

Well, yes, definitely. But many people tend to move further out because countryside that is close to the city is often very expensive. And then you have the possibility of the city building out to your property as time goes on. But definitely, you can have a country home right outside the city limits and many do!

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Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — City — The Comparison of Lifestyles in Countrysides and in Cities

The Comparison of Lifestyles in Countrysides and in Cities

• Categories: City Healthy Lifestyle

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Published: Jan 8, 2020

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Write a comparative essay about living in the countryside and living in the city.

There has been an increasing concern about choosing living environment in the society these days. People find it hard to choose whether they should live in the countryside or in a city since these two are vastly different in many aspects including lifestyle, job opportunities and environment.

Firstly, living in rural areas, as opposed to a crowded town, refers to a peaceful and slow pace of life due to its thinly populated feature. Also, people living here are mostly engaged in agricultural work, which doesn’t demand fixed and intense working schedule. As a result, they are more friendly and easy-going than ones having to deal with stressful work and fast lifestyle in big city. However, people in cities are better adapted to different conditions and more discipline. In terms of job opportunities, a city offers a diversity of types of work, especially jobs about services and business. Labors working here have to be always updated and competitive to catch up with the latest technological development. In contrast, the countryside is the ideal haven for ones who are interested in agricultural fields because the main economic source here is from agriculture. Finally, environment is one of the noticeable factors that concerns people as they choose their residential district. Living in the countryside is obviously more comfortable and healthy thanks to fresh and clean air with natural landscapes. However, big cities, in spite of its polluted atmosphere, provide its residents with a wide range of modern and exciting entertainment such as amusement park, large shopping mall and luxurious restaurants.

In short, both living conditions have its own appealing features in term of lifestyle, career opportunities and environment. To make a good decision about where to settle down, people have to consider all differences and their own taste of lifestyle.

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Essay evaluations by e-grader

Grammar and spelling errors: Line 1, column 53, Rule ID: AFFORD_VBG[1] Message: This verb is used with infinitive: 'to live'. Suggestion: to live ...en an increasing concern about choosing living environment in the society these days. ... ^^^^^^ Line 3, column 327, Rule ID: ONES[1] Message: Did you mean 'one's'? Suggestion: one's ...y are more friendly and easy-going than ones having to deal with stressful work and ... ^^^^

Transition Words or Phrases used: also, finally, first, firstly, however, if, so, in contrast, in short, such as, as a result, in spite of

Attributes: Values AverageValues Percentages(Values/AverageValues)% => Comments

Performance on Part of Speech: To be verbs : 11.0 13.1623246493 84% => OK Auxiliary verbs: 1.0 7.85571142285 13% => OK Conjunction : 15.0 10.4138276553 144% => OK Relative clauses : 4.0 7.30460921844 55% => More relative clauses wanted. Pronoun: 13.0 24.0651302605 54% => OK Preposition: 46.0 41.998997996 110% => OK Nominalization: 7.0 8.3376753507 84% => OK

Performance on vocabulary words: No of characters: 1592.0 1615.20841683 99% => OK No of words: 297.0 315.596192385 94% => More content wanted. Chars per words: 5.36026936027 5.12529762239 105% => OK Fourth root words length: 4.15134772569 4.20363070211 99% => OK Word Length SD: 3.0105755168 2.80592935109 107% => OK Unique words: 183.0 176.041082164 104% => OK Unique words percentage: 0.616161616162 0.561755894193 110% => OK syllable_count: 510.3 506.74238477 101% => OK avg_syllables_per_word: 1.7 1.60771543086 106% => OK

A sentence (or a clause, phrase) starts by: Pronoun: 1.0 5.43587174349 18% => OK Article: 2.0 2.52805611222 79% => OK Subordination: 2.0 2.10420841683 95% => OK Conjunction: 0.0 0.809619238477 0% => OK Preposition: 5.0 4.76152304609 105% => OK

Performance on sentences: How many sentences: 14.0 16.0721442886 87% => OK Sentence length: 21.0 20.2975951904 103% => OK Sentence length SD: 31.5989698876 49.4020404114 64% => OK Chars per sentence: 113.714285714 106.682146367 107% => OK Words per sentence: 21.2142857143 20.7667163134 102% => OK Discourse Markers: 7.42857142857 7.06120827912 105% => OK Paragraphs: 5.0 4.38176352705 114% => OK Language errors: 2.0 5.01903807615 40% => OK Sentences with positive sentiment : 12.0 8.67935871743 138% => OK Sentences with negative sentiment : 0.0 3.9879759519 0% => More negative sentences wanted. Sentences with neutral sentiment: 2.0 3.4128256513 59% => OK What are sentences with positive/Negative/neutral sentiment?

Coherence and Cohesion: Essay topic to essay body coherence: 0.191921869889 0.244688304435 78% => OK Sentence topic coherence: 0.063684143078 0.084324248473 76% => OK Sentence topic coherence SD: 0.0568440939343 0.0667982634062 85% => OK Paragraph topic coherence: 0.10411735497 0.151304729494 69% => OK Paragraph topic coherence SD: 0.048056520051 0.056905535591 84% => OK

Essay readability: automated_readability_index: 14.4 13.0946893788 110% => OK flesch_reading_ease: 41.7 50.2224549098 83% => OK smog_index: 11.2 7.44779559118 150% => OK flesch_kincaid_grade: 12.7 11.3001002004 112% => OK coleman_liau_index: 13.81 12.4159519038 111% => OK dale_chall_readability_score: 9.3 8.58950901804 108% => OK difficult_words: 87.0 78.4519038076 111% => OK linsear_write_formula: 11.0 9.78957915832 112% => OK gunning_fog: 10.4 10.1190380762 103% => OK text_standard: 11.0 10.7795591182 102% => OK What are above readability scores?

--------------------- Rates: 84.2696629213 out of 100 Scores by essay e-grader: 7.5 Out of 9 --------------------- Note: the e-grader does NOT examine the meaning of words and ideas. VIP users will receive further evaluations by advanced module of e-grader and human graders.

April 15, 2024

Is it better to live in a city or in the countryside?

Sample answer:.

Living in a city or in the countryside both have their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities. In this essay, I will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of living in both urban and rural areas before drawing a conclusion.

On one hand, living in a city offers numerous opportunities for career advancement, social activities, entertainment, and access to modern amenities. Cities are usually well-connected, with good public transportation systems and a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Moreover, cities often have better healthcare facilities and educational institutions, making them an attractive option for families with children. However, the fast-paced lifestyle and high cost of living in cities can be stressful and overwhelming for some people.

On the other hand, living in the countryside provides a peaceful and serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The air is cleaner, and there is more space for outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, and farming. Additionally, the cost of living is generally lower in rural areas, allowing for a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle. However, the lack of job opportunities, limited access to healthcare and education, and potential feelings of isolation can be significant drawbacks for those accustomed to the conveniences of city living.

In conclusion, whether it is better to live in a city or in the countryside depends on individual circumstances and personal preferences. While cities offer a wide range of opportunities and amenities, rural areas provide a peaceful and affordable lifestyle. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what is most important to the individual and their family.

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Home In The Pastures

Life at Home in the Countryside

Benefits of Living in The Countryside

Are you wondering what the benefits of living in the countryside are? Unlike in the cities, life in the country moves a little slower. The countryside also provides a more relaxed and peaceful environment.

The advantages of countryside living have been well researched, and science proves that living in the country improves your mental and physical health considerably. Even though living in the city has its benefits, country life can bring the best in you.

There’s a lot of room for you in the countryside if you appreciate your privacy, a serene environment and the open sky. Read on to know why living in a rural area might be a great choice.

Table of Contents

Once in the countryside, you’ll notice the change in the quality of air. It is fresher and cleaner compared to the city air. Studies show that the reason for this might be reduced pollution or profusion of trees and plants.

Air pollution in a densely populated area is mainly caused by inadequate greenery and high emissions from vehicles and factories. Once these emissions enter your lungs, they’ll impair your breathing increasing the chances of critical health conditions.

If you want to experience fresh air, contact a  cross country moving  company and live your quiet life in the country.

Serene Natural Environment

Immersing yourself in a serene natural atmosphere is excellent for your mental and physical health. It can lower your blood pressure and improve your short-term memory as well. Moreover, you can significantly enhance your  creative skills by living a slow-paced life.

Improved psychological health

Living in the cities over-stimulates the regions that regulate anxiety and emotion in the brain, increasing the rate of mental problems. In rural areas, the brain is less likely to experience overstimulation. This is beneficial in reducing the risk of mood and  anxiety disorders .

You cannot entirely prevent these disorders, but you can avoid the factors that cause them. This is one of the most alluring things about life in the countryside.

Life There Is Cheaper

If you’re searching for a place where life is very affordable, life in the countryside is ideal for you.

A research found that those in rural areas spent very little in every aspect, from groceries to transport and healthcare services. Also, accommodation charges are cheaper compared to the urban areas.

Stress-free Access to Organic Food

You can easily access healthy foods like fruits, animal products, and vegetables straight from the source in rural areas.  Moreover, it is easier to grow your own because there is ample space. 

In cities, access to organic food is quite difficult thanks to the proliferation of fast food restaurants that sell unhealthy food. However, you can spend less in the country and still get high-quality foods that are good for your health.

Living in the rural areas has numerous benefits ranging from the fantastic views to a low cost of living. If you can’t get enough of the clear skies and green environment, then you should seriously consider relocating to the countryside. Rest assured you will love living there.

*This is a collaborative post

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The Advantages of Living in the Countryside

A quote from famed writer William Penn: "The country life is to be preferr'd; for there we see the works of God; but in cities little else but the works of men." For some, that best sums up the advantages of country living. But there are other perks.

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If you like privacy, living in the country works well -- particularly if your home is situated in a remote area and you don't have neighbors for miles. This also provides solitude.

Less Pollution

The countryside is generally quiet and peaceful -- certainly not as contaminated with toxic pollutants as the city. There isn't as much traffic or smog or pollution from industry. Ecologically speaking, the advantages to living in the country include eating locally grown food; less pollution because cars are not idling in traffic as happens in the city; and land on which to grow your own food and raise your own animals.

Healthier Pregnancies

A pregnant woman who lives in the city is more apt to go into premature labor than a pregnant woman living in the country -- particularly if the woman lives near a concentration of main roads and highways, notes Babyzone.com. Exposure to air pollution produced by car and truck emissions may trigger preterm labor. The loud noise of city traffic that prevents a pregnant woman from sleeping well at night may also be a contributing factor. Pregnant city dwellers' pregnancies were shortened by an average of 4.4 percent according to a study released in 2011 by Adrian G. Barnett, et al, called "Increased Traffic Exposure and Negative Birth Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort in Australia."

In the country, you have more space. If you want to build on your home, you have the room to do it. If you want to construct a shed or a barn or an art studio, you have the room. Space is at a premium in urban areas, which is not the case in the countryside. You can even have more kids than you would have had if you had stayed in your tiny city dwelling. Depending on where you live in the country, you can have mountain views, lake views, ocean views or pasture-like scenes right outside your door.

Ready Access

Outdoor aficionados may prefer the country because they have ready access to hiking, climbing, bike riding, camping, fishing, hunting and numerous places where you can do just about anything that you want without traveling somewhere else to do it. Step out your back door and you can be in or near a nature trail.

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Top advantages of living in countryside

Do you like the hustle and bustle of the city life more than the peace and quietness of the country? Do you favor gentle moonlight and the open sky more than bright lights and skyscrapers? If all your answer is towards the countryside, then it’s high time you start moving from the city to a country. Living a simple and slow life may be dreadful to many, but it is also a beautiful experience for many others.

There is a famous quote from the writer William Penn about the countryside that,” The country life is to be preferred, for there we the work of God; but in cities little else but the works of men.” This quote almost sums up the advantages of living in the countryside. In the country, life is a little slower than the city. The benefits of living in the countryside are well established. Research shows that countryside living is beneficial to both mental as well as physical health. If you have already decided to move, then get in touch with reliable moving companies  and start planning your move today.

Also Read: Differences between village life and city life

According to a survey by the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, there is almost 97% of the land in the USA that is in the countryside but only 13% is occupied by the people. This shows there is a lot of room for those who want to settle in a private, quiet and open sky of the country. The city might offer a large number of opportunities, but a large number of popular and hustle might be a bit suffocating for many. 31% of rural people consider themselves happy compared to 25% of the city inhabitants. Almost 18% of people living in the city have admitted about the constant stress that they are always under.

When it comes to the decision of selecting which lifestyle to choose between the city or the countryside, many people cannot make a firm choice. So if you are still confused about deciding the life between the countryside and the city or if you need a strong reminder about why settling for the country life is a better choice, then this article is for you!

Also Read: Benefits and advantages of Living in Cities

Advantages of Living in the Countryside

Now let us see what exactly makes the living in a village or countryside so appealing to the people.

Privacy:  Most of the houses in the countryside are located at some distance from one another. Thus if you like privacy and do not want to have neighbors for miles, then living in a country will definitely provide solitude to you.

Lesser Pollution:  The more you enter into the countryside, the more quality of the air improves. Researchers have found out that the abundance of green trees, less amount of pollution, and exposure to phytochemicals released from the fungi, plants, and microbes improve the cells of human beings. Pollution in the city mainly comes from the harmful air emitted by cars, buses, and factories. These toxic particles enter the lungs causing breathing to impair, COPD, asthma and heart diseases.

The countryside is full of fresh and clean air and is very peaceful and quiet. The countryside is devoid of any toxic pollutants, traffic or smog that is extremely beneficial for the health of the people. In the city, due to an innumerable number of cars, one takes hours to get from point A to B. In the country, with less number of cars on the rods, one can enjoy the ride from one place to another that too within no time at all!

Lots of space:  There is a lot of space in a country. If you are planning to construct an art studio or a barn, you have plenty of room to plan them. Space is a concept of luxury in the city areas which is not the case in the countryside. You also can have direct views of the snow-capped mountains, lakes, or picturesque sceneries depending on where you live in the country.

Better mental Health:  Living in the city can stimulate two harmful and key regions of the brain that regulates anxiety and emotion. According to scientists, that is the reason that there are high rates of psychological problems in the city people tan the countryside. In rural areas, the brain is less likely to get any such trouble resulting in a lesser number of mood and anxiety disorders. Research also shows that people living in the city are showing increasing chances of schizophrenia risk due to the increasing amount of pollution. The people in the country suffer from less stress due to less competition in the working field.

More Closer to Nature:  In the countryside, you can find direct sunlight and abundance of green trees. Thus emerging yourself in the lap of nature is more beneficial starting from enhancing the power of the memory to decrease the blood pressure. Spending more time close to nature not only improves physical health but also energize mental health.

Less Amount of Crime:  It is found out that the people living in the rural sides are exposed to fewer crimes than those who live in big cities or towns. Due to less number of people, there are lesser chances of committing any crime like aggravated assault, theft or robbery. According to statistics, there are 2.8 officers per capita for 100000 people in the countryside compared to 2.6 officers per capita for 100,000 people in the city.

Thus if you are looking for someplace where you can leave the window open while sleeping or can be tension free for your kids who will be riding home alone from school, then the countryside is the perfect place for you!

Cheaper and more Economic:  Cities are more expensive than the countryside to live in. According to a study in Pennsylvania, it is seen that the people in the country have to pay much less for everything starting from groceries, healthcare to transportation. Also in rural areas, people have to pay 12.7% less for housing than people in urban areas. You can get a premium bungalow in the rural areas at a similar price for a studio in the metropolitan areas. The taxes for any kind of properties are much less when compared to the taxes in the city.

Access to Organic Food:  In the countryside, you can find lots of fresh fruits, eggs, vegetables directly from the source. Due to the huge availability of space, you can even grow food of your choice organically. In the city, unprocessed and healthy foods are not so difficult to find, but they are more expensive. Gas station snack bars and small markets are more prominent that organic stores for groceries.

In the country, people with less income can also eat cleaner diets due to the production of organic food on a mass level.

Stronger Communities:  One of the most undeniable benefits of living in the countryside is the communities. Since it is a small place, everyone knows everything about one another. When someone new enters the neighborhood, all the people from the surroundings introduce themselves with a heart-warming welcome gift like a pie or cookies. This kind of belonging is missing in the big urban areas.

Ideal for Small Businesses:  The small town has less competition when you are setting up your business. It is easier to become more famous and build a good reputation for your trade within a short time.

Healthier New-borns and Pregnancies: It is seen in research that a pregnant woman who lives near highways or main roads tends to go into labor earlier due to the air pollution from the truck and cars. In 2011, according to a study by Adrian G. Batnett, it is seen that the pregnancy of the city women was shortened by 4.4% due to increased exposure to traffic resulting in negative outcomes in the new-borns. This risk is almost nil in the case of countryside women as they enjoy their pregnancy with fresh air, a cleaner environment, and soundless sleep.

Ready Access to Extracurricular Activities:  Those who love adventures like hiking, biking, fishing, camping and hunting, they do not have to go anywhere else if they are living in the countryside. You can step outside your home and you can enter a natural trail for all of these. You can also admire the breathtaking meadows, hills or peaceful forests.

More care for the Children in Schools:  In small communities, the children get the maximum one to one care due to less number of children. The teachers give equal attention to the students and know their weaknesses and strengths by heart.

Disadvantages of the countryside Life

Along with the positive aspects, the countryside living has some negative sides too. Let us go through the disadvantages of the country living as follows.

• Due to fewer options for business or industry, the rate of unemployment is much higher in the countryside. The only alternative for earning a living is through farming.
• Transportation can be a reason for trouble if you do not have a car for traveling from one place to another.
• Access to the high-class medical facilities, higher education, shopping malls, and colleges is also a matter of concern for the people living in rural areas.
• Shopping for goods that are more than staple foods or hardware items can also be a problem or you may take a trip to the city to buy them.
• Internet and television services can be patchy or weaker in the village areas.
• Mechanics, services for car wash or cabs are difficult to find in the countryside
• Entertainment like watching a movie or an amusement park may be miles away from where you stay.

There are numerous benefits of living in a country that no one can find anywhere else. You can get everything that you can get in the city in addition to green meadows and fresh air, water, and food. There will always be some trade-offs, but if you can get enough of the above-mentioned benefits in the countryside, then it is worth living for and will definitely outweigh the minor negatives of the rural areas. Thus consider the above pros and cons of setting in the country before making your decision to move out of the city.

Also Read: Reasons why Urban Planning is important for cities

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Living in the countryside is better than living in the city. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

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The number of children that read for fun has dropped dramatically in recent years. What are the reasons for this? How can we encourage children to read more?

Shopping online is becoming much popular in today’s world. what are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend, when choosing a job, the salary is the most important consideration. to what extent do you agree or disagree, some people say that parents have the most important role in a child's development. however, others argue that other things like television or friends have the most significant influence. discuss both views and give your own opinion, crime appears to be rising in most countries in the world, especially among young people. identify the possible causes of this trend, and propose some solutions you think would be effective..

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In Maryland, female migrant laborers face an uncertain future as sea levels rise – photo essay

For the women who pick and prepare Maryland’s famous crab, the once profitable work is far more uncertain – and the climate crisis has had a damaging impact

In the evening light, Maribel Malagón stepped outside into a rain storm.

It was late October and Malagón, 53, had worked all day picking crab off the eastern shore of Maryland . That night, she and a handful of other seasonal workers walked to a neighbor’s house for an evening of prayer. On the way, Malagón clutched a pendant of St Judas, the patron saint of lost causes, that hung around her neck; she hoped he would hear her prayers for more work.

About an hour later, when the women were ready to call it a night, the coastal waters had risen so high that the road leading back to their house was completely submerged.

“We didn’t know which way to go. We were afraid that we would fall into the ditches,” Malagón said in Spanish, thinking back on that night two years ago. To make it back home, the women waded through knee-high murky waters. “The island is changing every year.”

For more than 20 years, Malagón has been coming to work in crab processing plants on Hoopers Island, one of the many island communities in the Chesapeake Bay.

Hoopers Island, a chain of small islands linked by causeways, has been the center of the state’s seafood industry since the early 1900s. Due to its low-lying nature, the region has faced erosion and destructive storms over the years.

But rising sea levels are increasing the frequency of flooding, creating uncertainty for the village’s watermen and their families, who have long depended on the seafood industry for their livelihoods. The situation is especially worrying for female migrants such as Malagón, who have limited job prospects back home in Mexico and wonder how long they will be able to work on the island.

Twenty-four years ago, when Malagón first arrived on the island, her output was prolific. With the precision of a machine and a sharp tiny knife in hand, she would break off the claws, crack open the shells, remove the legs, and scrape out the white meat into containers in seconds. She estimates picking between 40 and 48lb of crab meat in her eight-hour shift.

Now, she says 10 hours could go by, and she’ll only have picked 30lb. She suspects the crab population has decreased in number and size over the years.

“The crab was huge in my first years here. Our hands would hurt from how big they were. We produced a lot of pounds, but unfortunately, we were paid $2 a pound back then,” said Malagón, who works for one of the five crab houses that remain.

Aubrey Vincent, the owner of Lindy’s Seafood, a processing plant on the island, said wages have significantly increased for her employees. They make about $16 an hour, compared to four or five years ago when they made $7.52 an hour, she said.

Some employers pay workers per pound, so the more abundant the catch and meatier the crabs, the more money the women can send home.

“For the past five or six years at least, the work is not 100% consistent every season, and it seems to sometimes vary across workplaces,” said Julia Coburn, director of projects and special initiatives at Centro de los Derechos del Migrante (CDM), an advocacy group that supports workers in the region.

“The workers are coming with certain expectations about what they can pick in a season and how much pay they can take home, and that’s changing. It’s having a widespread impact on their families beyond their immediate circumstances.”

Vincent said the unpredictable nature of the work has to do more with shifting environmental conditions and weather than any fluctuations in crab availability. She described an industry at odds with numerous economic conditions.

“You’ve got a certain amount of costs [of doing business] that have gone up, just like everybody else’s expenses,” she said.

Crab populations fluctuate yearly and have always been difficult to predict. But recent years have raised concerns among the state’s seafood houses, which have relied on the temporary worker program since the 1980s, to stay open.

Each winter, when crabs are in semi-hibernation, Maryland and Virginia conduct a survey to estimate the number of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. In the mid-1990s to the late 2000s, there was a dramatic decline in the blue crab population. Biologists, as well as the federal and state governments, believed that the problem was due to overfishing and poor water quality, causing a decline in habitat and food, which ultimately led to restrictions on the number of crabs caught for commercial sale in 2008.

The 2022 survey estimated 227 million crabs, the lowest ever recorded in the survey’s 33-year history . This led to new limits on the number of male and female crabs watermen could harvest. In 2023, the population bounced back to 323 million , a 40% increase; while these figures are encouraging, scientists urge continued vigilance based on low numbers of juvenile crabs.

Today, researchers believe overfishing is less likely to be the sole contributing factor, and instead argue that factors related to the climate crisis could be affecting blue crab reproduction and survival.

“We’re certainly seeing evidence in the data that reproductive success is declining,” said Tom Miller, a professor of fisheries science at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Sciences who studies blue crab populations.

The climate crisis could affect the blue crab population in other ways. With shorter winters, crabs could face a longer fishing period, meaning more of them would be caught, said Miller. However, he added that the impact is unclear and an active area of research. Ocean acidification may also contribute to the shells of blue crabs becoming less strong, making them more susceptible to predators.

Conservationists also believe pollution and the recent decline in the Bay’s underwater grasses is probably contributing to low blue crab numbers. Another factor could be the presence of the invasive blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay.

“They’re going to be doubly impacted by not only shorter winters, but the shells will become less strong than they once were. There’s a lot changing in the world for crabs,” said Miller.

The 2024 blue crab winter dredge survey results will be released in May .

Despite the unpredictable and temporary nature of the work, many women in central Mexico vie for these positions when recruiters come to towns, hoping to score work authorization.

“What we make here in a day would take us a week to make back home,” said Elia Ramírez Rangel, a crab-picker from Hidalgo.

For women in particular, there is a dearth of job opportunities in their communities in Mexico and abroad in the US. For some, crab-picking is their best chance of finding sustainable work, said Coburn.

“There is no source of work back home,” a laborer working on the island for 14 years said in Spanish. She spoke to the Guardian on condition of anonymity for fear of employer retaliation.

In 1996, she left Mexico to make a living picking crabs in the Carolinas. She described having to make the arduous decision to leave her two children, aged nine and 11, in the care of her sister and family friends. Over the years, with her earnings and faith in God, she said she was able to afford a house and basic necessities like food and clothing for her children, who are now grown.

“It’s been very difficult for me to be far away from them. Even though they’re grown up, I still feel like there’s a void,” she said in Spanish. “When I left them, I didn’t see their achievements, for example, in school. I missed their birthdays.”

In 2021, women made up just 12% of H-2B visa recipients to the US . On Hoopers Island, these women often describe coming to the US for work out of necessity. For nine months out of the year, they report leaving their families and children behind for a steady, albeit seasonal, paycheck.

Some workers, like Malagón, come to Hoopers Island year after year to work in the local seafood industry, so long as their seasonal work visas are granted. Her father spent decades picking under the hot sun in California’s farmlands as a bracero. At the age of 22, she said poverty and desperation led her to follow in her father’s footsteps; later, she switched to picking crabs, a job her father described to her more suited for women.

Over the course of the 20th century, crab-picking in the US became gendered and racialized work. Research shows picking crab meat was work delegated to women based on beliefs that their hands are typically smaller and more nimble. Some scholars argue hiring immigrant workers was a way to pay women less for the work.

Crab houses say they have turned to workers from Mexico in recent decades because of a local labor shortage. In order to obtain visas, they need to prove local workers are not able to fulfill those jobs. Before the 1980s it was low-paid work largely carried out by Black women .

The journey from central Mexico to Maryland involves an arduous three-day journey by bus. For Malagón, the biggest sacrifice has been the time spent away from her sisters, mother and son.

“Leaving was horrible,” said Malagón, who sends money home to her ageing father. Seasons spent laboring abroad have allowed her to transform her family’s once-dilapidated property in the countryside of Guanajuato into a comfortable living space.

“The grace of God has given me license to build everything I wanted. I have comforts that I didn’t have before,” Malagón said in Spanish. “We used to sleep on the floor when we were kids, but now, thank God, we have beds. We’ve got a fridge, we’ve got a TV.”

With the rising cost of living and less predictable hours, some women report earning less than they once did.

Previously, working 10-hour days six days a week could earn them $280 a week, but now, with workers reporting dwindling crab harvests, they sometimes only work three to four days a week and for shorter periods of time. Vincent said women have the opportunity to earn above their hourly rate if they are more productive.

Other crab-house owners acknowledge that workers may take home less pay depending on the harvest. Jay Newcomb, the former owner of Old Salty’s, a popular crab house and restaurant on the upper island, said his employees make $5 a pound or $17.50 an hour.

“That can fluctuate due to the quality of crabs, males versus females, the size of the crabs. Some days it may be better but we have to pay whatever is the highest,” said Newcomb, who downsized his operations in 2021 and sold Old Salty’s to open a smaller restaurant on nearby Taylors Island.

The federal average rate is currently $16.42 an hour.

To fill their idle hours, many of the women make phone calls home, watch TV together, or look for ways to earn extra income. Currently, workers in Maryland’s seafood industry are exempt from minimum wage and overtime protections under state law .

Without public transportation, they often pay or rely on favors from acquaintances to drive them 40 minutes to the nearest city of Cambridge for errands.

Over time the repetitive hand motion of picking crab can result in arthritis, back pain, allergies to crab meat, and cuts to their hands from working quickly with the knives used to cut the shells open, according to CDM. Vincent acknowledged that crab picking, like other production jobs, can be physically demanding.

The advocacy group also said that women are disincentivized from reporting work-related issues or take sick days because their immigration status is tied to their employer, making them susceptible to labor abuses. Vincent said she provides an anonymous tip line where employees can report issues.

Despite the challenges, the women emphasize that they are grateful for the opportunity to work and note that there have been some improvements over time.

Today migrant workers have successfully gained more labor protections in part due to laborer testimony and a coalition of groups such as CDM, which have fought for policies that improve working conditions.

Some women have begun organizing a Comité de Defensa, where they discuss ongoing issues such as Covid-19 vaccine information, accessing healthcare in this remote region, and how to report work-related injuries. Part of that work also involves disseminating information about their rights with other women on the island and their families, many of whom are also contractors.

The view from the cabin where Malagón rents from her employer overlooks the Honga River estuary and distant pine forests. A tree directly outside the house that once provided shade and a place to hang dry clothes was swept away in a storm recently, leaving only a small stump behind.

This three-and-a-half-mile stretch of land known as Hoopersville is the middle island of the three that make up Hoopers, dividing the Honga River from the Chesapeake Bay.

Surrounded by a lush ecosystem of marshland, wildlife and tall seagrass, the women are also geographically and socially isolated.

Nestled in Dorchester county, a tight-knit community with predominantly conservative values, the women say they turn to their faith in God and seek solace in each other’s company while away from home.

The narrow bridge connecting the middle to the upper island routinely floods in high tide, leaving the women trapped. Lower Hoopers Island, formerly Applegarth, became uninhabitable due to erosion, and a hurricane washed away the bridge in 1933.

Malagón vividly remembers the first time she saw the bay’s waters encroaching on the doorstep of the house in 2006. “When I looked outside, I was terrified,” she said. “We had never seen the tide rise that high. Now we see it as more normal.”

Flooding has become routine in recent years, threatening the daily lives and futures of locals and women alike.

The Chesapeake Bay has risen by about one foot during the past century, which is nearly double the global average. By 2050, sea levels are projected to rise by as much as two feet. Climate models predict that over half of Dorchester county, the third-largest county in Maryland by land area, could be underwater by the end of the century.

Vincent said she has an emergency management plan for a major flooding event during work hours, where she would evacuate her employees, but says there’s only so much she’s responsible for as an employer.

CDM argues there is a pressing need for climate adaptation measures from both governments and employers to safeguard seasonal workers’ wellbeing in the long run.

“With roads washing out, the communication lines go down – it just increases all these layers of vulnerability,” said Coburn.

“The truth is it’s very beautiful living here – except when the tide rises,” said the laborer who has worked on the island for 14 years. During a recent grocery trip to Walmart, 40 minutes away, she said her housemates were unable to return to the island because the bridge was closed due to flooding.

Language barriers can make it difficult for women to stay informed and they often rely on word of mouth from other workers about the bridge flooding.

With every passing season, the grueling nature of the job and looming precarity can take a toll emotionally and physically – some of the women question whether it’s worth coming back.

“As long as we’re here, we’re going to make the most of it,” said Clara Ramrez, a worker at GW Hall & Son, one of the crab processing plants on the island. (GW Hall & Son did not respond to requests for comment.)

Some owners share a common sentiment.

“We just do the best we can with what we’ve got, and ultimately, everybody’s goal is the same: to try and make a living,” said Vincent.

Back at the house, a group of women started to arrive for the new crab season that started on 1 April.

This year more visas have been made available , and Vincent scored 80 visas for her employees through the lottery system. Speaking via WhatsApp from Mexico in early April, Malagón said she was getting ready to make the trip to Maryland via bus. If all goes well, she and the other workers from Lindy’s will arrive by 15 April.

Newcomb, the former owner of Old Salty’s, said he won 23 employee visas this season, up from the roughly 18 or 20 he’s gotten in previous years.

AE Phillips & Son, another crab house on the island, was unable to obtain visas and will not be operating this season, a major setback for the company and its employees.

Malagón says she has put her faith in God for a bountiful season, with hopes of returning every year to have enough money to retire. Still, she worries for the future of the industry and the region itself.

“If God allows it, my goal is to work for 10 more years. But if there’s no crab, what will we do then?”

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One-Pot Tortellini With Prosciutto and Peas Is for Friends

Whether in the eating or in the making of Ali Slagle’s springtime supper.

By Melissa Clark

I’ve just returned from visiting friends in the French countryside where we cooked together, improvising dinner from whatever looked promising at the market that day. This is my absolute favorite way to cook: in convivial company, riffing with what the season has offered, exchanging inspiration and knowledge as we go.

Back in my own kitchen, one way to hold on to that glow of camaraderie is to enlist help from family and friends. It’s admittedly something that I, an enthusiastic alpha cook, sometimes forget to do. But sharing the work makes the process of cooking both quicker and more fun. It’s mostly a matter of dividing up the tasks.

For example, for Ali Slagle’s one-pot tortellini with prosciutto and peas , one person could fry the prosciutto into crispy, salty bits while someone else chops the shallot and measures the cream and chicken stock that will take the place of cooking water and add so much richness and flavor to the tortellini. Then everyone can sit back while the dish finishes cooking, which takes a mere 20 minutes — just enough time to enjoy a delightful beverage.

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One-Pot Tortellini With Prosciutto and Peas

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If you need to sip and chat in more depth, Von Diaz’s arroz con pollo takes two hours from start to finish. Most of that involves letting the boneless chicken thighs simmer until they soften enough to shred with a fork while the rice crisps at the bottom of the pot, absorbing the complex flavors of sofrito , tomatoes, olives and capers. That’s time enough to really dish.

Of course, some recipes are so quick and easy that there’s hardly any work to split, so you can just have someone mix you a drink or read you a poem while you whip it up. (Happy National Poetry Month !) Ali Slagle’s miso broiled tofu , inspired by chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s miso-broiled black cod, is one of these recipes. The miso and sugar form a charred crust while the tofu stays soft and custardy in the center. This goes well with something fresh and green, like Ali’s pan-seared asparagus with crispy garlic or her cucumber-avocado salad .

Speaking of cod and cucumbers, if you’re looking for a fast fish dinner, there’s my sheet-pan cod with scallions and cucumber yogurt . It’s cool and creamy from the yogurt sauce, pungent from the garlic and festive enough to serve to company, whom you can enlist for chopping and stirring, table-setting, cork-pulling or poem-reading .

Finish the night with a platter of Lisa Donovan’s nutty lemon bars , which she makes with a pecan crust that adds a deep toasty note to the tangy citrus curd. Lemon bars are one of my favorite desserts to bake for a crowd: Everyone loves them, and they’re at their best when made in advance. And when nobody’s around the next morning, the leftovers make a perfectly indulgent breakfast that you won’t have to share.

As always, you’ll want to subscribe for all of these recipes and so many more. If you need any technical help, the savvy people at [email protected] are there for you. And I’m at [email protected] if you want to say hi.

That’s all for now, see you on Wednesday.

Melissa Clark has been writing her column, A Good Appetite , for The Times’s Food section since 2007. She creates recipes for New York Times Cooking, makes videos and reports on food trends. She is the author of 45 cookbooks, and counting. More about Melissa Clark

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