In October 2020, the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) survey revealed that the coronavirus pandemic leads to 55% of 18-34-year-old Kenyans finding themselves likely to move to the countryside.

So, what entices so many young people to move away from the big cities and relocate rurally? Well, country living comes with several changes that can substantially impact a person’s quality of life.

Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat.

For many people, the idea of a home in the countryside represents a dream come true, a long-cherished life goal, or a reward for many years of hard work. There are numerous unique benefits to rural life that you can’t in the busy city.

Generally speaking, properties in rural locations can often be purchased for a lower cost than a similar-sized urban property, particularly those in our largest cities like Nairobi, Nakuru, and Mombasa, where city living comes at a premium and means you get much less space for your money too.

Demand for limited living spaces in towns and city centers ensures that prices for relatively small properties remain high. So while bigger cities will generally command a premium, making moving to the outskirts a cheaper option, this isn’t always true for truly rural properties in desirable villages.

Likewise, some big towns and cities across Kenya are somewhat rundown. As a result, they may have far cheaper housing on the market than can be found in more desirable, adjacent countryside locations.

However, the monetary savings associated with country life don’t end with the initial property purchase. Those accustomed to paying city-center prices will soon find their salary stretches further in the countryside, with amenities, groceries, and nights out costing less.

Did you know that even the big supermarket chains charge different prices depending on the location of their store and the area’s affluence?

The reduced cost of living, however, can sometimes be offset by a rise in the price of essentials; for example, high-speed broadband can be limited and cost more and heating costs can also go up in rural properties as many will have individual home heating oil tanks that can work out more costly in the long run.

Being more connected to the countryside can positively impact your well-being, helping to improve your quality of life.

Rural properties tend to be more spacious and are far more likely to have their gardens, making them ideal for those raising growing families. Countryside residents have nature and wildlife all around them, making it far easier to get back to basics and get back in touch with what matters.