More people moving out of the cities to escape city life stress.
More people moving out of the cities to escape city life stress.
When it comes to lifestyle choices in today’s global landscape, a growing preference for moving out of the cities is evident, reflecting a desire for tranquility beyond the bustling urban centers. Kenya, following this trend, is navigating a shift highlighted by the World Bank’s annual report on urban population growth, showcasing a noticeable decline in urban population growth.
Source: Urban population growth (annual %) – Kenya (World Bank)
High Cost Of Living in the Cities
Amidst this city-to-rural immigration, the high cost of living emerges as a significant driver for many who wish to reduce city life stress by moving out of the cities. While some attribute this urban-to-rural migration to housing challenges, the predominant factor remains the high cost of city life. For those prioritizing a lifestyle choice outside the city limits, it becomes imperative to let your preferences shape your decisions when looking for property for sale, especially considering that nations like Kenya rank among the most populated African countries, with cities like Nairobi housing over a million people. Given that “your health is your wealth,” lifestyle choice should serve as a primary motivator for when you need to buy property outside the city. This lifestyle choice may encompass a preference for a serene and peaceful environment to help reduce city life stress.
Source: African countries with the largest population as of 2023 (Statista)
Cites Vulnerability to Global Risks
The global outlook, as outlined in the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks 2024 report, potentially faces a predominantly negative outlook over the next few years. Anticipating increased instability and turbulent economic, geopolitical, and societal conditions more especially in the cities, people are finding it safer to buy properties situated outside the city. This move provides independence from centralized systems in the city, as dependence on city infrastructure becomes a potential issue seen during the pandemic, and there are still fears by the World Health Organization of Disease X causing the next pandemic. The Covid-19 pandemic underlined the importance of considering alternatives to city life, with rural properties offering individuals more freedom to engage in regular activities compared to the city dwellers.
Source: Source World Economic Forum Global Risks Perception Survey 2023-2024.
Rising Crime Rates in the Cities
One notable benefit reported by those making the courageous decision to move out of the cities through means like investing in properties outside the city, is the encounter with lower crime rates in less congested areas. Research indicate that high crime rates often stem from congestion, a significant issue in big cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. The surge in population, combined with a low police population ratio, contributes to rising crime rates. In contrast, properties in the countryside not only offer a low-stress lifestyle for buyers but also contribute to a safer environment by reducing factors that can lead to criminal behavior.
Why Others Buy Properties in the City
However, other than just seeing a rural property for sale sign board and investing there are people who question why one should invest in a rural property when most of their life is in the city and it is easier to obtain a livelihood there. While the benefits outlined above address this challenge, the gap can also be bridged by incorporating elements of rural living into urban environments through buying properties in the outskirts of the city centers, even if they are not deep into the rural areas. Therefore, by choosing this strategy, you can enjoy the perceived convenience of the urban landscape while experiencing the tranquility of rural living. On the other hand, whether you live in your rural property or not, you can always rent out or lease. After all, it is still an income-generating potential.
Buy Property Outside The City.
In light of these considerations, it is crucial to be mindful when selecting your living environment, especially as you in advance contemplate a better lifestyle choice within the context of planning for retirement in rural areas. With the escalating global risks and disadvantages associated with city life, everyone’s attention should be focused and engaged. Buy homes or buy properties outside the cities to explore the possibilities of rural living and embrace the tranquility it offers in the face of the worsening city life challenges.
Quote
“To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon the verdant green hills is the most perfect refreshment.” – Jane Austen