However, the Covid-19 pandemic caused a spike in people looking to move to the countryside, and with the shift in allowing flexible and hybrid working models, this has meant that the move out of the city for some is an extremely attractive option.
In this blog, we will explore the benefits that country living brings.
Lower Upfront Costs for Spacious Properties
Common across most of the United Kingdom, but especially in Northern Ireland you generally get more for your money when it comes to spacious properties in the countryside.
Although it is hard to gauge this to a metric, houses and apartments in Belfast would cost more than an equivalent in a rural Northern Irish council.
For example, a detached house in the Titanic quarter of Belfast in 2022 cost an average of £340,706*, whereas a detached house in Mid-Ulster fetched £229,595*.
*Data taken from PropertyPal.com
Escape the Stress of the City
In comparison with the city, the countryside offers an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle and unwind. With 24-hour traffic, busy restaurants, shops and offices and constant construction developments, the countryside is perfect for people trying to escape this.
If you are looking to unwind in a quiet and calming environment, then a move to the country could be for you.
Additionally, a report by the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in 2021 found that people who live in rural areas are happier and live longer on average than those who live in towns and cities.
Cleaner Air
As well as noise pollution, the city suffers from air pollution. Fumes from vehicles, industrial emissions, and urban congestion affect air quality.The air quality index of cities like Belfast is higher than rural towns and cities in Northern Ireland.
Shop Local
Living in rural areas means that you will find that there is a bigger concentration of smaller and in some cases independent shops.These shops are often stocked with locally sourced ingredients, items and crafts produced by local smaller businesses, supporting the local economy.
Not only will you benefit from top-quality products, but you may also find that it is cheaper and you are getting more for your money from these businesses.
Outdoor Pursuits
Whilst there is an abundance of activities and sports available through sports clubs and organisations in the city, the countryside offers an environment that the city is unable to replicate. The diverse and picturesque landscape of Northern Ireland means it is ideal for activities like hiking, cycling, fishing and general exploration.
Close Knit Community
The fast-paced nature, as well as the large rental market in the city, means that there is a constant change of tenants that are on short rental terms, as well as couples and young families deciding to upsize.This means that there is less chance of a community being built up, something that is very present in the countryside.
With many people settling in smaller towns and villages for the long term, rural communities are extremely welcoming, take pride in preserving their area and provide support networks for fellow residents.
Key Takeaways:
- Lower upfront costs: Spacious properties in the countryside of Northern Ireland generally offer better value for money compared to their city counterparts.
- Escape from city stress: The countryside provides an opportunity to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
- Cleaner air: The countryside boasts cleaner air compared to cities, where air pollution from vehicles and industrial emissions is more prevalent.
- Local shopping: Rural areas offer a greater concentration of local and independent shops, supporting the local economy and providing access to high-quality produce.
- Outdoor pursuits: The diverse and picturesque landscape of Northern Ireland's countryside provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, fishing, and exploration.
- Close-knit community: Rural communities tend to be more tight-knit, with long-term residents who take pride in their area and offer support networks to their fellow residents.