Many of the UK’s industries tend to make their bases in the largest cities in the country. As such, many workers end up living there or in the surrounding suburbs. The recent pandemic has shown a shift in attitudes towards working, with many opting to move away from busy towns and into calmer, stress-free environments.
If you are on the fence about relocating for your work-life balance, here are five reasons that may convince you to take the leap.
Escape the city stress
When you think about life in the city, the first thing that may come to mind is the hectic chaos of rush hour. Overwhelming and long commutes are common for those with jobs in the cosmopolis and you may often find it takes a long time to travel a short distance.
Having a hectic lifestyle combined with long commutes can often lead to burnout, especially if you are also worried about the higher cost of living. Moving further out of busier areas offers a slower pace of life with more time for relaxation and personal time.
Improved access to nature and outdoor activities
Studies show that living close to and having access to nature improves both physical and mental wellbeing. Relocating to the countryside or coast allows you to go for a quick walk after work or explore the local area at the weekends.
If you are drawn to the sea, why not look at new build developments such as in Withernsea? This area gives the perfect mix of town living but with a coastal twist.
Lower cost of living
One of the biggest advantages of relocating is the ability you will have to reduce living expenses. This is especially true in areas where housing and living costs are significantly lower than in cities. For example, the average property price in London last year was £691,134 whereas it was £314,952 in Eastbourne.
Moving to a more affordable location means you have more disposable income. This is yours to spend as you like, maybe with family, socialising or on your hobbies.
Take advantage of remote work opportunities
Remote working is a new way of working that looks here to stay. If you look on any job boards, there are plenty of companies offering remote opportunities.
Being able to work from home may incur a slightly higher electricity bill, but that is nothing compared to the money you save on commuting. Plus, you may be able to take advantage of other perks such as longer lunch breaks, to go to the gym or cook a nutritious meal.
A supportive, close-knit community
One thing that lockdown provided was a chance to get to know your community. Those in smaller, more suburban communities found it easier to make long-lasting friendships if they didn’t already exist.
Moving into one of these communities provides a support network that you may not have in a larger city. You can join in with local events, school PTAs and even community-run classes. Being social will have a great boost to your mental health.