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Age makes no difference in whether you can enjoy big city life. That's a matter of personal preference.
Having children makes a huge difference though. Many urban public school systems are generally sub-par, difficult to navigate, or both -- which is why families frequently relocate to the suburbs. And because cities are often more expensive than suburbs -- especially the big coastal cities-- families frequently can't afford the space they need in cities. Solve the space and school problem, however, and even families can enjoy big cities.
I grew up in Chicago and it spoiled me for ever wanting to live in a quiet suburb. I just got so used to the city amenities that I don't think I could ever live without them. Right now I live in an inner ring suburb of Cleveland, just a ten minute walk from the city of Cleveland so I really am not in a typical suburban setting.
I don't think age has a single thing to do with it. It's all about what people want out of their surroundings and what they need. Labeling who leans toward what is just another one of those meaningless stereotypical descriptions people are so fond of bestowing these days.
Age makes no difference in whether you can enjoy big city life. That's a matter of personal preference.
Having children makes a huge difference though. Many urban public school systems are generally sub-par, difficult to navigate, or both -- which is why families frequently relocate to the suburbs. And because cities are often more expensive than suburbs -- especially the big coastal cities-- families frequently can't afford the space they need in cities. Solve the space and school problem, however, and even families can enjoy big cities.
This. It's not about age. In fact, there are more than a few stories I've heard of seniors who retire to cities because they don't have to drive everywhere and there are lots of cultural amenities in a compact area.
But having kids in the city can be hard. Schools. Childcare (expensive anywhere, but super pricey in most cities). Transportation (especially when they're too little to walk on their own). The additional space requirements. And being able to afford all that. Plus, no matter what people say, you just don't go out as much once you've had kids, so some of the perks of big city living no longer hold the same draw.
I have friends and family in their 30s and 40s who live in NYC, Chicago, LA, etc., with no kids who love it. Many of my friends who have kids, even those in their late 20s/early 30s, either have left or are considering leaving the city. Especially those who've had two or more kids.
Interestingly, several aren't moving to the suburbs, per se, but are opting for small cities where they can still enjoy some of the amenities they want (some walkability/transit, parks, arts, good food, entertainment), but with more affordable housing, better public schools, etc.
Yep-my Mom says this often and I doubt she'll ever live anywhere but the city. I also had an Aunt that lived in Boston and took the T into her 80s.
I lived and worked in the Boston area for a number of years. I use to take the Commuter Rail and the T at least 5 days a week. I never understood how a senior, could manage all the stairs in the subway. Half the time the escalators are broken, or I'm not even sure all stations have them. It's one of the worst transit systems for seniors, I have seen in this country. Then again I think the Boston subway is the oldest in the country. It just doesn't seem very accessible to the handicap and seniors. I was on the Red line and orange line this past summer, it looks like nothing has changed.
So yes people of all ages can live in big cities, or at least on the outskirts of them. It depends on the person and their background. I foresee myself returning to a larger more practical Metro after this year. I tried this retirement bit, and I don't think I will ever be ready for it. It's just way to slow and conservative for this guy. Maybe by age 90 if I live that long, but not right now.
I'm 66 too. I retired "in place" four years ago. That is I had already been living near Center City Philadelphia since 1995 and never had any intention of leaving it for something/somewhere else. I was already living an amenties-rich life. Retiring means I enjoy that life even more.
That is I had already been living near Center City Philadelphia since 1995 and never had any intention of leaving it for something/somewhere else. I was already living an amenties-rich life
I'm living in Dallas, for now, and I truly miss Center City Philadelphia, Mummers Parades, South Street, Lorenzo and Sons pizza, Reading Terminal, Penn's Landing, Green Eggs Cafe, and just walking around Center City. Hopefully, we can get back to the Northeast, God-willing.
Not that 30's is old, but what I'm getting at is that big city life tends to appeal to and attract 20-somethings. So, I am just curious if people in their 30's, 40's and older can enjoy or prefer big city living. The whole idea of big city living seems to be marketed to young people. But at the same time, there are many young people who prefer quiet, suburban living.
Also, one of the reasons I'm asking this is because I have not lived in a large city since I was 23 and now I'm 31 and concerned if I'm going to be too old to move to a city like Chicago, Philly or DC, since I'm looking for jobs in those places as we speak.
What do you think?
I would say quite a few people who can afford to live in "Big Cities" for an extended period of time will typically be those who have been in their jobs for a while. Living in cities that are walkable and have many amenities usually is not cheap. Oh yeah, I'd say "older" people can definitely enjoy living in big cities!
Last edited by sandlapper; 12-08-2015 at 12:07 AM..
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