Exploring the Unique Aspects of Small Town Living
Years ago, I lived in a small town with a population of around 5000 residents. Despite its size, the town had a close-knit community where everyone seemed to know each other. There was a sense of respect and familiarity that made the town a special place.
Living in a small town can be an enriching experience, but it's not the same everywhere. The unique aspects of small town living can vary greatly depending on the location. For instance, a small town situated on an ocean shore might offer coastal experiences that are different from a small town at the edge of a desert or in a high elevation forest. Each location can provide its own distinct experiences.
Unique Small Town Experiences
Small towns often have their own unique characteristics that set them apart from one another. Whether it's a bustling tourist town, a dying town, or a boom town, the experience can vary widely. Some small towns welcome outsiders, while others maintain a more insular community.
My experience living in a small town began in a place we shall call Town A (not its real name). Town A had a population of 1000 people and was largely unchanged from back in the 1950s. I walked to school each morning, a trip of just three blocks, and explored the entire town on my bike. The town had a river, providing ample opportunities for mischief. I was part of a sports team, but as the town and its population grew, I found myself outclassed by others. Over the years, I moved to a larger town, and my children grew up in cities, which felt like a different world compared to the small town where I was raised.
Challenges of Living in Small Towns
Recently, for a vacation, we visited Chincoteague Island, Virginia, which is on the Eastern Shore. After enjoying our stay, we decided to move there full-time. However, we quickly realized that moving to a small town with a dwindling population could be a mistake. In the winter, there was nothing to do except look at the coast guard station, deep sea fishing vessels, and the NASA facility, which were the only permanent employment. In the winter, the tourists disappeared, leaving the town without much to offer.
Life in Small Towns vs. Cities
While I enjoyed the close-knit community and simplicity of small town living, it was also limited. In my hometown, I had the freedom to ride my bike and roam the entire town. However, as I moved to a larger town and then to a city, my children lost some of that freedom. They were part of cities where there was always something to do, from cultural events to new restaurants, which made their lives more exciting.
Every small town is unique, and the experience can vary greatly depending on the location and the community. From tourist towns to dying towns, each type of small town offers its own set of challenges and rewards. Whether you relish the close-knit community or prefer the excitement of a bustling city, small town living can be a rewarding experience.