DWELL

If there’s a generation defying stereotypes, it’s millennials. With over 72 million people in the U.S. alone, millennials are anything but monolithic. Some are drawn to vibrant cities and bustling suburbs, but a growing number are discovering that the best of life can be found in the heart of America’s small towns.

A record number of millennials are swapping city skyscrapers for small-town charm—discover why the movement is here to stay

With about 84-95% of millennials stating that remote work or hybrid work is important to them, their views are re-shaping both the workplace and the communities they live in. The rise of flexible, location-independent careers means more millennials than ever can ask: could I live somewhere more affordable, authentic, and connected?

Why Millennials Are Finding Their Dream Life in Small Towns: Remote Work, Community, and Adventure

This is why many Millennials are considering small towns for their future. Our small towns are fertile and affordable ground for a generation of innovators that are seeking balance in their lives and have bold hearts for investing in their communities. Hybrid jobs now mean a couple days a week (at most) require a commute - which puts small towns in driving distance of employment centers in play.

Did we mention that small towns are often more affordable than suburban options as well?

In a time when everything seems to move at warp speed, small towns offer a refreshing escape—an opportunity to embrace a slower pace, connect with a vibrant community, and rediscover the true meaning of a fulfilling life – with just a little less emphasis on your screen.

Here are just a few benefits of considering small-town living for Millennials with a heart for adventure and community – and possibly some land of your own.

Learning the Art of Slowing Down

In small towns, time seems to move at a different rhythm. Embrace the opportunity to slow down, take a breath, and appreciate the little moments that often go unnoticed. Enjoy leisurely walks down tree-lined streets, savor a cup of coffee at a local café, or spend a lazy afternoon in the park with friends. Small towns offer the perfect backdrop for practicing mindfulness, finding balance, and recharging your energy in a world that never stops.

**Millennials are finding that the real secret to happiness is community, not convenience**

The Community Vibe

One of the greatest treasures of small-town living is the strong sense of community that permeates every corner. Get ready to experience a welcoming and inclusive spirit where everyone knows your name. Engage with your neighbors, attend community events, and join local clubs or organizations that align with your interests. Small towns offer a unique opportunity to build meaningful relationships, create lasting friendships, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share your passions.

Take Back Your Early Mornings & Your Sunsets

Say goodbye to the long and stressful commutes that often accompany city living – even the congestion of going to the grocery store! In small towns, you can bid farewell to hours spent in traffic or crammed into crowded public transportation. Enjoy the luxury of shorter travel times and less congestion, giving you more time to focus on activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Imagine reclaiming those hours and dedicating them to pursuing your passions, spending quality time with loved ones, or engaging in personal hobbies.

Small towns offer a unique opportunity to achieve a healthier work-life balance. With a more relaxed pace of life, you may find yourself better able to prioritize self-care, personal relationships, and leisure activities. Spend your evenings and weekends exploring local trails, joining community events, or simply unwinding with friends at a cozy café. The emphasis on community and quality of life in small towns can help you create a fulfilling balance between work and personal pursuits.

Local Businesses – Which Could Include Yours

Small towns are often home to an array of charming local businesses, from mom-and-pop shops to quirky boutiques and family-run eateries. Embrace the "shop local" mindset and support these establishments. Explore the local farmer's market for fresh produce, shop at the neighborhood bookstore, or enjoy a meal at the cozy diner down the street. By supporting local businesses, you not only contribute to the town's economy but also help preserve its unique character and identity.

There is often an incubator spirit in our small towns these days

There is often a bit of an incubator spirit in our small towns these days. It is more affordable to work on your start-up when you have cut out the hour commute – both ways – to the office and back. With the transformation that our digital economy has created in even our most remote towns, it is not unusual to find mentors and even investors in these tightly-knit communities.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Now you can have time to put your amazing outdoor gear to use without the hours and planning you are used to. One of the greatest advantages of small-town living is the abundance of natural beauty at your doorstep. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your bike, or paddle down the nearby river. Small towns often offer easy access to scenic trails, parks, lakes, and mountains. Explore the great outdoors, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits that come with an active lifestyle. From breathtaking sunsets to star-filled skies, the natural wonders of small towns will leave you awe-inspired. With that extra time, perhaps you will learn a new skill, such as rock climbing or fly fishing.

New Hobbies, New Skills

Small towns provide the perfect opportunity to cultivate new hobbies and skills. Take advantage of local classes, workshops, or clubs that cater to your interests. Learn to play a musical instrument, try your hand at pottery, or join a community sports team. Small towns are fertile ground for personal growth, and you will find encouragement as you pursue your passions and expand your horizons.

The BIG Draw - Lower Cost of Living

One of the significant benefits of small-town living is the lower cost of living compared to big cities. Expenses such as housing, groceries, and entertainment are often more affordable, allowing you to stretch your budget and live a more financially sustainable lifestyle. With lower housing costs, you may find it easier to own your own home, providing stability and investment in your future. The reduced financial burden also allows you to allocate more resources towards experiences, travel, and personal development.

The City Life Is Never Far

Interstates and, in some regions, trains can quickly get you to the center of the urban jungle so you can enjoy the things of the city. Professional sports, major concerts, and your favorite place for Dim Sum will not be a thing of the past any more than your flights to a beach resort or Europe.

When you return home, the fresh air and the quiet of the evening will remind you of the treasure you have found in your small town.

Millennials, it's time to embrace the charm and community spirit of small-town living. In a world that often seems chaotic and fast-paced, small towns provide an oasis of tranquility, connection, and a chance to rediscover the simple pleasures of life. Whether you're seeking a more affordable lifestyle, a sense of belonging, or a space to pursue your passions, small towns offer endless possibilities. Embrace the slower pace, immerse yourself in the vibrant community, and forge meaningful connections that will enrich your life for years. Perhaps you need the small-town life as much as the small towns need you!

Follow along with us as we find towns that are particularly appealing to the Millennial state of mind!

[1] https://www.axios.com/2022/05/24/millennials-drive-remote-work-push

[2}https://www.gallup.com/workplace/692675/fully-remote-work-least-popular-gen-z.aspx

Updated 2025, originally published 2023