Why Are Homes Cheaper in the Country Than Bigger Cities?
A house in the country can help you save some cash.
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If you want to live in a large city, odds are good you're going to have to pay a premium to do so. Country homes are generally cheaper than those located in large metropolitan areas, unless the home is located in a country area that's a popular vacation destination or is in an area with a limited number of available houses.
Paying for Services
When you live within the limits of a big city, you pay a premium for the services the city offers, such as trash collection, rapid transit and animal control. A significant portion of these services are usually covered by your property taxes, which can add a hefty burden to your home costs. In some cases, though, home prices inflate when a city offers numerous services, because the housing market in that area becomes more competitive.
Paying for Employment Opportunities
There are generally more job opportunities in large cities, whereas in the country, employment may be limited to agricultural work or a few local businesses. Access to local jobs is a significant benefit that can increase property values. If you live near a major employer -- such as a hospital, large factory or university -- you can expect to pay even more, since people who work for the organization will want to move nearby.
Limited Homes Available
The housing market is run by supply and demand, and when homes are in demand, the price tends to increase. Many people consider country homes less desirable because they are more isolated and may require driving long distances to get to work or school. This means that there are more people seeking homes in the city, bumping up the costs of these homes.
Access to Public Schools
An excellent public school system can significantly drive up the cost of a home, and country homes are typically located far away from public schools. The increased price will be reflected in both your property taxes and the home sale price, but if you're considering private school, the slight increase in home cost might actually save you some money.
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Writer Bio
Van Thompson is an attorney and writer. A former martial arts instructor, he holds bachelor's degrees in music and computer science from Westchester University, and a juris doctor from Georgia State University. He is the recipient of numerous writing awards, including a 2009 CALI Legal Writing Award.