Choosing Where to Live Abroad: Big City Buzz or Small Town Charm?
Big City Dreams: Why Major European Cities Are So Popular
Moving abroad is easy… said no one ever.
When we start thinking about moving abroad, we usually daydream about the dazzling big cities we all know and love: Paris, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, the list goes on. And hey, there’s a reason these places are popular. They’re vibrant, full of life, and rich in culture.
Why Small Town Living Might Surprise You Abroad
But I also think there’s something to be said for small town living. Fewer people, less noise, and often, a lower cost of living.
Beyond those obvious perks, though, the real magic of small town life lies in the deeper cultural experience. Native speakers often speak in dialect, nudging you to learn the language more casually. You make friends with people who know all the hidden gems. You get to take part in unique traditions and celebrations that you might never experience in the bigger cities. For me, that was Krampuslauf… and let’s just say, it was an interesting night.
“But now? I live in a small town on the southern border of Austria. And surprisingly, I’ve come to appreciate a slower lifestyle.”
Questions to Help You Choose Where to Live Abroad
So even if you’re used to the hustle of a big city, don’t count out what a smaller place can offer. It’s worth asking yourself: what parts of your daily life are true must-haves?
Do you need 24/7 access to public transport, or do you enjoy occasionally walking or biking to your destination?
Are you a bar-hopper, or does hanging out at the same pub every weekend sound more your speed?
Do you need the newest trends the second they drop, or are you okay with discovering them a little later?
How important are concerts to you? Are you willing to travel to see your favorite artists, or are local live shows enough?
These might seem like small details, but they can make a big difference in your day-to-day happiness.
But just because you’re used to certain conveniences doesn’t mean you’ll struggle without them. In fact, you might end up discovering a whole new lifestyle that feels just right.
My Story: Why I Chose Small Town Life in Austria
I’ve lived near big cities most of my life, growing up near Toronto, then moving close to Nashville for university. Need a snack or a grocery run at 2 AM? No problem, something was always open. The latest clothes or items from a TikTok trend? At the mall five minutes away.
But now? I live in a small town on the southern border of Austria. And surprisingly, I’ve come to appreciate a slower lifestyle.
The Unexpected Benefits of Slowing Down Abroad
Every other Thursday, my friends and I head to the local Irish pub for their (very fun and very challenging) pub quiz. Maybe one day we’ll actually win, but honestly, it’s more about the comfort I get from knowing the menu by heart and being greeted by the same familiar faces.
Beyond that, there’s a comfort in familiarity. Like knowing your way around not by street names, but by landmarks: the bakery with the great cinnamon rolls, the weird statue in the city center, the pizza place that only takes cash. That kind of familiarity makes settling in easier. Because let’s be real, moving across the world away from family and friends is hard. It’s inevitable that loneliness creeps in. But in a small town, it’s easier to build community. You get to know the people on your daily route, and they get to know you. It becomes 10x easier to strike up conversations, and friendships feel a bit more natural than they might in a city where everyone’s just passing through.
Want to know more?
You can book a time to meet with Savanna and ask her more about her experience in Austria and beyond!
So… City or Small Town?
All in all, this is my pitch to give the smaller towns a shot.
Because who knows? It might just be exactly what you need.
