Thinking about moving out of downtown Toronto? Are you seeking the suburbs or even a quiet place in the countryside? Leaving the city for suburban and rural living has been a popular trend since the pandemic hit in 2020. The opportunity to work from home has opened the door for many to move away from big cities in search of quieter, more relaxed communities. As major cities like Toronto become increasingly crowded and expensive, many Canadians seek more affordable areas to get bigger houses for their money. There are pros and cons to suburban and rural living – maybe it’s right for you!

Why Are Canadians Moving to Suburban and Rural Areas?

1. A desire to escape the city

While some people thrive on the fast-paced environment of a big city, others find the hustle and bustle of a large urban centre overwhelming. Many areas are becoming increasingly crowded and expensive, and finding affordable family homes can be challenging. The pandemic has instilled a fear of crowded places, with many wanting to avoid overly busy areas. Your stage of life plays a big factor as well. Many neighbourhoods in the West GTA are perfect for young families and anyone nearing retirement who may be ready for a change to a closer-knit community and a slower pace of life.

2. Affordability of rural areas

Generally, you can get a lot more house in the suburbs or a rural area than in a big city. After being stuck indoors during the Covid pandemic, many Canadians looked around their living spaces and realized they wanted more room. You will find more space, both indoors and out, in suburban and rural areas. Because the properties are more affordable, moving out of the big cities often opens up homeownership opportunities for people who struggle to afford a home somewhere like Toronto. For many families, selling their home in the city and heading to the burbs is the only option for a bigger house that fits their growing family. 

3. Increased chance of remote work

The plethora of employment opportunities is often what drives people to larger cities. Having to commute often holds people back from moving to suburban and rural areas. Once Covid hit, many Canadians were forced to work from home. This highlighted the possibility of continued remote work as both employees and businesses saw the benefits. Remote work and an improved telecommunication infrastructure mean many people can work from anywhere. This newfound freedom has been a driving factor in the deurbanization trend of the last few years.

4. A slower pace and more relaxed vibe

Another realization the pandemic brought about was the busyness of our lives. People are done being overstressed, overworked, and overscheduled and are seeking a quieter pace. Suburban and rural areas boast more parks, lakes, trees, and trails, allowing you to slow down and relax in a more tranquil setting. You’ll also find a closer-knit community where people know their neighbours and are involved in local events. If you want to escape the anonymity of the city, this can be a big plus.

5. The need for more space

Raise your hand if you felt cramped at home during the pandemic! All that time at home brought to light the need for more space, both indoors and out. While remote work has many perks, it also requires office space. If you’ve been working with a desk in the corner of your bedroom, you’re probably ready for a little more room. Suburban and rural areas offer options for bigger homes on larger lots to give you some breathing room!

Pros and Cons of Suburban and Rural Living

Pros of heading to the suburbs

• More affordable properties than big cities
• Bigger homes and larger lots for more space both indoors and out
• Lower crime rates
• Quieter, more serene settings
• Sense of community and neighbourhood feel
• Amenities geared toward families
• A slower pace and less traffic
• More room to spread out

Cons of suburban living

• Fewer job opportunities for those who aren’t working remotely
• Not as many dining and entertainment options
• Less public transit options
• Fewer businesses and shopping options
• Can be less culturally diverse
• Fewer options for service providers (cable, internet, etc.)
• Amenities are more spread out

Is Suburban and Rural Living Right for You?

The choice to live in the city, suburbs or a rural area is unique to you. Your personal preferences, work opportunities, lifestyle and stage of life will all play a role. Shifting from an urban area is perfect for those who want a slower pace of life and a more relaxed, easy-going atmosphere. If you enjoy being in nature, knowing your neighbours, and living in a tight-knit community, it might be the right choice.

On the other hand, if you live for nightlife and thrive on the busyness of a large city, you may find the suburbs boring! Getting around in suburban and rural areas will be tricky if you don’t own a car and rely on public transportation.

One thing is sure – the trend of moving to suburban and rural areas reflects a shift in our preferences and priorities. Escaping the hustle and bustle for a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle appeals to many Canadians. Stepping outside the city brings more affordable housing, extra space, a slower pace, and a sense of community.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of a big city for a suburban or rural area in the West GTA, the David Bradica team is here to help you find your perfect home!