Considering a Move to the Big City? 6 Reasons Why You Should Totally Go for It

For those of us stuck in the suburbs, it’s only natural to get that itch from time to time to move out to a major metro area.

Of course, self-doubt often creeps in and stops us from thinking twice.

“How could I possibly afford the move?”

“What about everything I have here?”

“It’s just not the right time.”

That said, there’s a reason why that urge to make it in the big city creeps up on us so often. While you might only get a taste of the metro life on vacation, there are indeed some big-time benefits to taking the leap and moving on up, so to speak.

And before we dive into our list, bear in mind and yes, metro areas traditionally come with the caveats of pricier living arrangements.

Even so, consider the six reasons why you should seriously consider moving out to a big city.

Getting Around is a Breeze

The ease of getting around is arguably the most often cited perk of living in a downtown district.

For starters, the ability to walk to nearby restaurants and attractions at a moment’s notice is a total game changer for those of us who are used to filling up our gas-guzzlers. Meanwhile, public transit in the form of bus systems or bike sharing is an added bonus.

In some cases, those living in a downtown area don’t need a car at all.

This is especially true given the popularity of ridesharing which has totally taken over most big cities as a cost-effective way to get around. By the way, you can find tons of tips on how to make the most of your ridesharing adventures through sites like Ridester.

Better Job Opportunities

Major metro areas are job hubs, plain and simple. A higher cost of living means more high-paying gigs; meanwhile, companies in advanced tech or business traditionally set up shop in bigger cities.

If you feel like your career has stagnated or there are otherwise no jobs in your area relevant to your experience, perhaps it’s time to see what the city has to offer.

More Diversity and Culture

When you live somewhere that isn’t exactly bustling, sometimes it’s easy to get stuck in your “bubble” of a community.

The same people, the same ideas and, well, not much else.

On the flip side, big cities attract residents from all walks of life. This diversity not only opens you up to new ideas and cultures, but perhaps most famously, different types of food.

Seriously. Walk a few blocks in the likes of Manhattan or downtown Houston and you’ll see everything from Vietnamese fusion and Korean BBQ to high-end steakhouses and mom-and-pop pizza shops.

Simply being in a big city represents an ongoing opportunity to expand your horizons, learn about new cultures and stay open-minded.

No Shortage of Entertainment

There’s always something going on in any given downtown district in America, plain and simple. Big cities boast sports, concert venues and a nightlife scene that you simply aren’t going to see in any suburb.

Even if you consider yourself a fan of low-key, “simple” entertainment, you’ll find it hard to be bored in the city. There are endless meet-ups and local groups you can find online for your respective metro area for just about anything.

And when things are constantly going on, it’s much easier to attract friends and family to come visit you. Whereas someone might not be so keen to visit you in the middle of nowhere, it’s hard to pass up a trip to the big city (especially if you’re in the vicinity of a major airport).

Improved Mental and Physical Health

Don’t take it from us: research shows that city living makes you happier and healthier. This could be attributed to the fact the city life requires you to constantly be on the go, keeping both your mind and body busy on a day-to-day basis.

Beyond staying fit, consider also that bigger cities provide you more diversity in terms of doctors and treatment options to keep your health in check.

A New Start

If nothing else, moving to a big city affords you an opportunity to sort of start over fresh. Rather than live with regret or “what-if,” what’s keeping you from taking the plunge if it makes sense financially? Considering that the average American moves over 11 times throughout their life, nobody should feel compelled to stay in one place forever.

Although the idea of moving to the big city might be daunting, you indeed only live once. With these perks in mind, perhaps you can find the motivation to try your hand at a new adventure.