With a tight economy, everyone is pinching their pockets to try and save money, whether it means spending less, using less or going out less. If you are caught up in the current housing crisis, perhaps you have decided to sell your home and move elsewhere. You might want to consider moving to a rural area!

According to data from the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) programs, rural areas experience the lowest foreclosure rates. And according to an article from RealtyTimes, homeownership rates in rural areas are steadily about 15 percent higher than in metropolitan areas. Not only is homeownership security higher, but the cost of living is lower! In many ways, rural living can dramatically decrease your spending and increase your savings. Reasons include:

You are away from the chaos and drama that occurs in big city markets. According to RealtyTimes, rural homeowners are more likely to invest in sound lending plans with less confusion.

The price of gas is usually dramatically cheaper than in large urban areas. How much money you save depends on how far of a commute you’ll be making.

Food can also be cheaper by deleting the travel costs and shopping locally. Local markets are almost always abundant in rural areas. Not only will you save money, but you will also be eating healthier and living greener!

Most rural homes contain a well and septic system. This cuts out the costs of a water bill. With fresh air, you may be for apt to open the windows instead of turning on the A/C. And few rural neighborhoods include HOA fees.

When living in a rural area, you tend to own larger amounts of land. Land takes work. Not only will you have grass to mow, a barn to upkeep or a garden to grow, but you can also hike or canoe during your leisure time and take advantage of the free nature activities that surround you!

With less entertainment options around, you will automatically spend less money. You will most likely shop in bulk, dine out less often and see fewer movies. If this calm lifestyle is one you could handle, the savings would definitely add up.

This could be the perfect time for you to start a business. Grow vegetables or flowers, open a horse barn and offer lessons or horseback riding trails, or offer to mow lawns! Plenty of opportunities exist if you open your mind.

What it all comes down to is whether you could handle this sort of quiet lifestyle. Living in the city allows everything to be right at your fingertips. But it’s an option that exists and is worth considering. On average, rural living costs 16 percent less that urban living.