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Essay / Urban Living vs. Rural Living - 858
Imagine having to choose to reside in one place for the rest of your life. Which one would you choose? Some would say that the hyperactive lifestyle offered by a big city has more advantages than life in the country. However, others will say that the calm and peaceful environment of the countryside is much more rewarding. Many people leave the city to settle on a farm to escape the hustle and bustle. Likewise, some farmers have traded in their tractors and animals for a bustling urban life. Of course, not all major cities are the same and not all places in the country are the same. Recognizing this, ten years ago I decided to leave city life in Indiana behind and take a more laid-back approach to life in rural Tennessee. Certainly, city living and country living have their advantages, but they also have notable differences. Work environments, for example, vary between people who live in the city and those who live in the countryside. City dwellers generally have commutes that are sometimes long, arduous and congested. Jobs are more numerous in urban areas; however, the city's fast-paced work environment can cause great discontent. However, some will say that it would be easier to find another job because the market is higher. Although I agree that the job market is stronger in the city, so is the number of potential job seekers. Generally speaking, city life is more hectic and noisy. While a large majority of Americans cluster in our major cities, there remain millions who live outside of cities. Certainly, there are a lot more activities in the city: shopping centers and restaurants galore, thrift stores, libraries, and concerts...... middle of paper ......atmosphere, the crime rate in the country is weaker. In fact, unlike homeowners in the country, a city dweller would never even consider locking the doors as an option. Whether it's the crazy, energetic, stress-filled life of city living that you prefer or the laid-back, relaxed lifestyle that the country has to offer, both have their advantages. The choice depends on what is important to each individual. I have many fond memories of living in the city during the early part of my life; however, it was the move to the countryside that had the greatest impact on my life. Industrial employment opportunities were greater in the city and extracurricular activities were plentiful. Nevertheless, I prefer to cherish the slower pace of life in the countryside, the kindness of the friends and neighbors I have here and the taste of rural life..