The white picket fence isn’t for everyone.
Through our consumption of modern media over the years, we’ve had a picture of urban and suburban life painted for us. We’ve witnessed Carrie Bradshaw run through the busy streets of New York City, growing her career and attending social events. We’ve also watched The Simpsons, living as a family in Springfield, with the youngest kids going to school and enjoying the neighborhood life.
While drastically different in plot and purpose, shows like these have influenced the way we view urban vs. suburban vs. rural life. When it comes time to actually decide where to move and which type of area suits your lifestyle, it’s tricky to navigate through your own influences and opinions. We’ve broken down 11 tale-tell signs, saying and truths that can help you navigate the difference and work through your own natural biases about urban vs. suburban living.
Urban, by definition
Urban areas, also known as cities or metropolitan areas, are densely populated regions characterized by high human activity and development. Urban areas are typically the centers of economic, cultural and social activities.
They are also known for their higher population densities, taller buildings, extensive public transportation systems and greater access to amenities. They offer a wide range of job opportunities and cultural attractions, making them hubs of economic and social life.
City examples:
Suburban, by definition
Suburban areas are typically located on the outskirts of larger cities or urban centers. These areas often have lower population densities compared to urban areas, with a greater emphasis on single-family homes, larger yards and local green spaces. Suburbs are known for their relatively quiet and less crowded environment compared to urban centers. People who live in the suburbs often commute to work in the nearby city.
Suburb examples of the above cities:
Urban vs. suburban: 11 giveaways that will tell the difference
Suburban and urban life are very different. And there are some over-arching themes, traits and signs related to each that amplify just how different these areas are. Think you’ll be able to tell the difference? Try to guess what kind of area the person in these scenarios lives in.
1. You can’t remember the last time you had to use your car.
Answer: Urban. One of the benefits of city living is the walkability and access to alternative transportation options. People living in urban areas often rely on railways, trains, cabs, bikes, Ubers and walking shoes to get where they need to go in their day-to-day lives. Cars are unnecessary in these areas and some city residents don’t even own cars.
2. Local businesses are within walking distance to your place.
Answer: Urban, again. Between bodegas, family-owned coffee shops and thrift shops, local businesses are on almost every corner in city areas. The convenience provided by the walkability to all of these types of businesses is a huge draw for potential city residents.
3. You’ve driven an hour or more to a play, but you have the movie theater right around the corner.
Answer: Suburban. Suburban areas, while they may not have a wide variety of entertainment options, typically have chain stores, a handful of local shops, movie theatres, restaurants and parks. To experience larger excursions, like a play or concert, you most likely will have to commute to the nearest city.
4. It’s almost too quiet when you go to sleep at night.
Answer: Suburban. A huge difference between suburbia and urban areas is the noise. Suburban areas wind down as the sun sets, creating a quiet atmosphere for sleep. The most noise suburban residents hear is the buzz of cicadas or weather-related sounds.
5. Getting late-night food a routine staple.
Answer: Urban. Cities notoriously never sleep. Bodegas, food trucks and convenience stores stay open late to specifically cater to this mindset. Whether you’re craving a snack while watching a movie or worked late and need to grab dinner, urban areas ensure your snack venture is quick and easy.
6. Traffic sounds are almost white noise to you.
Answer: While this seems like it could be both, it’s urban. Suburban areas often involve residents commuting to work, meaning sitting in traffic. However, urban areas have traffic noises 24/7, creating a constant background hum of city life.
7. Waze is your most used app.
Answer: Suburban. As touched on before, suburban residents often commute to the nearest city for their jobs every day. This means calculating traffic, taking less congested routes and anticipating fluctuating commute times. Waze, a popular navigation app, is perfect for planning around traffic and getting where you need to go, in as little time as possible.
8. You’re genuinely surprised when you hear a car horn honk, and it’s usually followed by an apology wave.
Answer: Suburban, for sure. City life is absolutely more fast-paced than suburban life. This can influence tempers and patience levels whereas in a slower-paced suburban atmosphere, there’s less rush, more patience and certainly less defensive driving. Meaning suburban residents have little reason to ever use their car horns.
9. Boutique shops are a bit out of reach, but you can count the strip malls within a 5-minute commute to your house.
Answer: You guessed it, suburban. Suburban areas have access to amenities though these are typically chain stores with a few boutiques sprinkled in. Due to the ability to place large businesses that take up more square footage, like strip and outlet malls, residents of suburban areas are sure to find themselves shopping at such stores.
10. You ride the elevator with the same people and have never said more than a few words, if any.
Answer: Urban. We’re all familiar with the term “southern hospitality” and while suburban areas aren’t always southern, they’re friendlier. The fast-paced atmosphere of urban areas doesn’t lend itself to too many unplanned conversations, as people always have places to go and things to do.
11. You can Tetris almost anything in your place.
Answer: Urban, yet again. The packed nature of cities means less square footage in your apartment or rental property. This causes residents to get creative and perfect the practice of playing Tetris with their belongings, furniture and everything else in between.
Urban vs. suburban: not exactly a battle
Both of these lifestyles have a lot to offer their residents, it boils down to personal preference and priorities. Remember, no moving decision you ever make is permanent and it’s worth it to experience what both areas have to offer to truly appreciate the diversity of lifestyles and opportunities available.
Exploring both urban and suburban living can provide insights and enrich your life in unexpected ways. Still in the market for that perfect place, in suburbia or the city? Start and end your search with our list of apartments for rent.
Source: rent.com