What does it mean to live in a small town? To me it’s a lot of things, so here’s a list.

1. Living in a small town means less options for fun things to do on the weekends.

In the moment it sucked and I always wished I lived in the city. But after moving to college, I realized that I can make the most out of small things – finding fun in walking around Wal-Mart and watching the sunset at the lake. I don’t need too much to keep myself occupied.

2. It’s kind of hard to get lost.

In small towns, you basically have the town map on the back of your hand. No need for GPS.

3. Everything is within walking distance.

When you need to see your friends or need to get to the grocery store, you can live without a car (winter is an exception). And when you do drive your car, you save on gas because of the short distances.

4. There is so much space!

Although we don’t have malls and sky scrapers, we have beautiful nature with breathable air. You can take a long stroll or a bike ride on the outskirts of town without too much noise. Having less to do means we spend less money and spend more time on the things that are important to us like family or hobbies.

5. Stargazing is the best in small towns.

You can actually see the stars! Laying out on the grass and finding the big and little dipper and locating the North Star is always a fun summer thing to do with friends.

6. There is a lower cost of living in small towns.

This makes it financially easier, especially for newly immigrated families.

7. The best part of small towns are the random, traditional parades and festivals.

For example, a Turkey Day parade that race turkey or a Frog festival that race frogs!

8. Small towns don’t have crazy traffic which is always a plus.

I can leave my house five minutes before school starts and I can get from one side of town to the opposite end in less than fifteen minutes.

9. You always run into someone you know.

Whether you’re at the store or taking a walk, you will probably see someone you know which is quite comforting.

10. You learn a lot about the value of farming and gardening.

Since we are surrounded by agriculture, we understand the long and hard process of growing goods and taking care of livestock. We don’t take fresh food for granted.

We may have fewer restaurants and Pokestops, but we sure do know how to appreciate a simple life.