Why More Londoners Are Choosing to Live in the Countryside (And How You Can Too)

In recent years, a growing number of Londoners have found themselves drawn to the countryside, spurred by a desire for space and a more grounded way of life. Global events have accelerated this shift, prompting city dwellers to reassess the pace and pressures of urban living. For many, the countryside offers not just a physical escape but a reset for body and mind.

The appeal lies in tangible rewards: homeownership becomes attainable, nature is ever-present, and communities feel more accessible. As one former Londoner noted, the ability to live alone, own pets, and enjoy greenery from every window brings profound benefits. Others find that smaller towns offer a surprising richness, including new interests, spontaneous social connections, and even the chance to launch creative ventures with local support.

Beyond lifestyle perks, rural living fosters a deeper sense of purpose and self-reliance. The daily rhythms of countryside life, from maintaining gardens, fixing drainage, or simply preparing meals without Deliveroo, demand engagement with the real world. This shift from digital abstraction to physical action can be deeply satisfying. Writing in The Standard, Joy Lo Dico, who made the move from the capital city to the countryside, observed that “I did a thing” became a mantra of meaningful productivity.

How Can You Make the Move Out of London?

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Preparing for a successful move from London takes more than romantic ideas of rolling hills and fresh air. It requires careful planning, financial clarity, and a realistic sense of what rural life entails. Before you buy, it can be wise to rent locally for a year to test the pace of life, assess transport connections, and get to know the community through different seasons. 

Getting your finances in order early is also crucial. Moving from London can involve hidden costs, from higher renovation expenses to longer commutes or energy upgrades, so it’s worth reviewing your assets and creating a clear budget before you commit.

For example, if you’re a landlord, one effective way to release capital quickly is to sell tenanted property through a cash-buying company in order to streamline the process. These buyers can often complete within weeks and cover legal fees, making the transition quicker and less stressful. By planning your finances with foresight and exploring flexible selling options, you’ll be better positioned to secure the right home and settle smoothly into rural life.

When planning a move, patience and perspective are also essential. The pace of rural property markets can be slower, so avoid rushing into a purchase simply because it feels like a fresh start. Instead, focus on areas with strong long-term value, especially towns and villages that have maintained steady growth over the last decade. These locations are where demand is underpinned by genuine community life, good transport, and sustainable local economies.

A Rewarding New Chapter

Ultimately, the growing shift of Londoners to the countryside reflects more than a change of address; it’s a search for balance, meaning, and connection. With thoughtful preparation and clear priorities, the move can offer not only financial and lifestyle rewards, but also the chance to rediscover what it truly means to feel at home.