What are the advantages of living in the city compared to the countryside?

There are many advantages to urban living, but these advantages depend upon the qualities of a particular city. Some American cities are compact and walkable, like Boston or San Francisco, and having car is not necessary. This saves money and encourages walking for a healthy lifestyle. Some cities are more spread out and require a car (like Los Angeles or Miami). One of the greatest advantages to living in a city is culture; this is...

There are many advantages to urban living, but these advantages depend upon the qualities of a particular city. Some American cities are compact and walkable, like Boston or San Francisco, and having car is not necessary. This saves money and encourages walking for a healthy lifestyle. Some cities are more spread out and require a car (like Los Angeles or Miami). One of the greatest advantages to living in a city is culture; this is due in part to the influx of European and Asian immigrants that settled in the United States after the turn of the century (we see this reflected in the names of neighborhoods there, such as Little Italy and Chinatown). Immigrants from many nations continue to increase the diversity of the cultural landscape in America's cities. One finds many choices to enrich one's life through this diverse culture, including choices of food, music and leisure activities. There are usually high-quality medial facilities available in cities as well, with cities like Boston and Chicago having world-class hospitals and medical centers. Universities and colleges are usually found in larger numbers in cities, and most cities have large public library systems. Arts facilities in cities are also often dynamic and can provide opportunities for enjoyment and education. Rural areas frequently do not have the demand or funding for such facilities, and so country dwellers often have to travel to the "big city" to see a play, concert, or independent film.

Many large cities have public transportation systems, which also lessens the need and expense of owning a car. Living conditions are usually more dense in cities, and this allows for relationship to develop among communities and for neighborhoods to develop their own unique character, making them desirable of many reasons. Cities can also be visually beautiful, with historic architecture and well-designed parks. Public parks and gardens can help residents feel more connected to nature, the absence of which can be one downside of city living. But convenient access to a park can be every bit as satisfying as living in the country, without the potential for feeling isolated that can occur with rural living.