Living Close to Schools vs In The Country

Back to school time is here and whether you wish summer could last forever, or you are counting down the days until school starts up again, where you live has a big impact on your school day schedule.

Dufferin County has several wonderful neighbourhoods close to elementary and high schools where your kids can walk to school each morning and maybe even run home for lunch during break time. We also have some beautiful rural areas with a great bus system where your kids can be bussed into school each morning and home each afternoon. 

Choosing the right home for your family involves weighing many factors, especially when it comes to your children’s education and overall lifestyle. Each option has its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and cons to help you decide which is the best fit for your family.

Neighborhood Living: Walking Distance to Schools

Pros:

1. Convenience: Living within walking distance of schools means less time spent on transportation and more time for family activities. Morning routines are simpler without the need to drive or wait for the bus.

2. Community Involvement: Neighborhoods near schools often have a strong sense of community, with frequent opportunities to meet other parents and families. Your kids might make friends more easily with classmates living nearby.

3. Increased Safety: Being close to schools often means your children can walk home, reducing the need to worry about transportation delays or bus safety. Many neighborhoods also have crossing guards and lower speed limits, adding an extra layer of safety.

4. Higher Resale Value: Homes in proximity to good schools often have higher property values and appreciate more quickly, making them a solid investment.

Cons:

1. Less Privacy: Living close to schools often means living in a busier, more densely populated area. This can translate to less privacy, more noise, and traffic congestion, especially during school hours.

2. Smaller Lots: Homes near schools are typically in more developed areas, which might mean smaller lots and less outdoor space for your family to enjoy.

3. Higher Cost: The convenience of being close to schools can come at a premium. Homes in these areas may be more expensive than those further out, which could limit your housing options. Property taxes in some areas, such as Orangeville, will also be higher than in rural communities like Mono and Amaranth surrounding the town.

Rural Living: Privacy with Busing to School

Pros:

1. Privacy and Space: Rural properties often offer larger lots, more outdoor space, and greater privacy. If you value peace and quiet, a rural home might be the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle.

2. Connection to Nature: Living in a rural area allows your family to be closer to nature. Kids can explore the outdoors, and you can enjoy a more relaxed, country lifestyle.

3. Lower Housing Costs: Rural properties are often more affordable per square foot than those in urban or suburban areas, giving you more house and land for your money.

4. Customizable Living: With more land, you have the freedom to customize your property, whether that means adding a garden, building an outdoor play area, or even keeping animals.

Cons:

1. Longer Commutes: The biggest downside to rural living is the time spent on transportation. Your children will need to take the bus to school, which might mean earlier mornings and longer commutes.

2. Fewer Amenities: Rural areas typically have fewer amenities nearby, like shopping centers, restaurants, or entertainment options. You might find yourself driving longer distances for everyday needs.

3. Maintenance and Infrastructure: Rural homes can come with unique challenges, such as longer driveways to clear in the winter, private wells or septic systems to maintain, and potentially slower internet speeds.

Which Is Right for Your Family?

The decision between moving to a neighborhood within walking distance of schools or a rural property with more privacy depends on your family’s priorities and lifestyle.

If you value convenience, community involvement, and being close to amenities, a home near the school might be the best choice. On the other hand, if you cherish privacy, space, and a connection to nature, a rural property could offer the peaceful lifestyle you’re seeking.

Consider the daily routines, future needs, and what you want your children to experience as they grow up. Ultimately, the right choice is the one that best aligns with your family’s values and the lifestyle you wish to lead. I would love to help you and your family find the perfect location for you. For information on what is available for sale right now, details about local schools and neighbourhoods, or if you have any other questions, give me a call, 519-942-7413 and have a great back to school season!