The benefits of moving to a smaller town or village

With rising living costs, changing work patterns and growing appetite for better quality of life, smaller towns and villages are becoming a popular choice for buyers of all ages.

Here is a detailed look at some of the benefits of moving to a smaller town or village, and why it could be one of the best decisions you make for your future.

A slower pace you can enjoy  

One of the biggest advantages of small-town communities is the pace of life. In large cities, daily life is often fast, loud and non-stop, with constant traffic, queues and little time to pause. In smaller communities, things are naturally quieter and there are opportunities to take your time getting to work or simply step outside and enjoy fresh air.

This slower pace often leads to a better work-life balance, with less time commuting and more time enjoying your home, family and hobbies. Even a walk to the local shop can become a relaxing part of the day instead of a stressful chore.

Villages and small towns often have stronger communities 

Another reason many people choose to move to smaller area is the sense of community. Unlike cities where neighbours can go years without speaking, in a village or market town it is more common to get to know the people around you. You might see familiar faces at the local café, speak to neighbours on the school run or meet others at community events.

For families, this kind of environment can be appealing for raising children in a friendly and supportive setting. Local events, charity fundraisers, markets and village fairs are regular features of life in these areas, creating a real sense of belonging that is often hard to find in a busy city.

Surrounded by nature, not buildings  

Another benefit of rural living is the opportunity to live close to nature. In many villages and small towns, you’re surrounded by countryside, woodlands, rivers or coastal paths. That means morning walks, weekend bike rides or spontaneous trips to the park are quite literally on your doorstep.

Living close to nature has also been linked to better metal health, reduced stress and a more active lifestyle. For anyone who enjoys gardening, dog walking or simply being outdoors, this kind of setting can be life changing.

Ideal for remote working and modern living  

Remote and hybrid working have changed the way many people think about location. You no longer need to live within 30 minutes of an office to stay connected.

With reliable broadband now widely available in most towns and villages, living in a small town or village does not mean sacrificing your ability to work remotely, join video calls or stream online. As a result, more professionals are now choosing homes based on lifestyle preferences rather than commute times.

You still have everything you need nearby 

Smaller towns and villages may be quieter than cities, but that does not mean giving up convenience. Most have everything you need for day-to-day life including schools, shops, pharmacies, dentists and transport links. In fact, many people find they rely less on their car once they move because everything is within walking distance.

There are usually good road connections and regular bus or rail services to nearby larger towns or cities. So, when you do need a big shopping trip or a city day out, it is still perfectly doable. You get the best of both worlds. Peace and space at home, with good access when you need it.

You get more for your money when buying a home 

One of the biggest draws of a village lifestyle is the value for money. In many cases, house prices are significantly lower than in cities, meaning your budget stretches further.

For some first-time buyers, this means getting on the property ladder sooner and for growing families or those looking to downsize, the options are often more spacious and affordable. 

Even for those downsizing or retiring, smaller towns can often offer better value and more choice.

Looking for a new home in a village or small town? 

Tilia Homes build high quality new homes in a variety of beautiful towns and villages across the country. From countryside retreats to well-connected commuter spots, our new build developments offer a chance to enjoy everything village life has to offer, with the modern features you need.

If you are ready to explore life beyond the city, explore our range of new build developments here.