10 Cities That Promote a Minimalist LifestyleBy RISMedia Staff
Minimalism, a trend that’s gained traction in recent years, has many benefits from both a wellbeing perspective and an environmental standpoint. But aside from the personal choice of whether this is the lifestyle for you, where you live can make it easier or downright difficult to stick to your decision to go small.
RentCafe’s latest report ranked 96 cities – those with populations of over 200K – to see the top 10 that best support the adoption of a minimalist lifestyle. The cities were ranked on aspects such as home sizes, electricity bills, use of eco-friendly practices, natural landscapes, and google searches related to minimalism. The report found that Salt Lake City, Utah, emerged as the best city for minimalists. The city was propelled to the top by a combination of factors including the strongest interest in minimalism in the country based on Google searches, an active biking scene, easy access to small-home living and a rapidly growing public transit network. Biking to work is also very popular in Salt Lake City, while the commute time, at under 18 minutes, is the third shortest among the country’s major cities. The relatively low electricity bills, the large population working from home – roughly 25% – and a high share of people who walk to work only add to the city’s friendliness toward a lifestyle that reduces extra consumption of resources. Key highlights:
“While the US is experiencing significantly higher interest rates, inflation and job layoffs, overall, the economy is stronger than in most countries globally,” said Doug Ressler, Business Intelligence Manager at Yardi Matrix. “Americans are likely to seek more leisure time and lifestyle changes due to reduced spatial needs in housing units which will also allow for an economic advantage in their housing costs.” “Living a staunch minimalist lifestyle might not be for everyone – however, it definitely pays off to take some of its principles to heart,” Maria Gatea, a real estate and lifestyle editor for Yardi and author of the report. “Reducing the amount of stuff you own, focusing on practical living and finding ways to enjoy your free time without spending money sets you up for better financial and mental health. And, considering the current global challenges we are facing related to the availability of various natural resources, living a simpler, less consumerism-oriented lifestyle might be just what we all need.” Mia Danielle, a home organizing influencer, commented that “Whereas minimalism may have started out as somewhat of a millennial interest, today it appeals to a broader demographic of people with a common interest in conscientious living and productivity.” “You likely don't need as much as you think you do. In truth, most of us don't even want as much as we think we do – it's more a matter of adhering to our personal status quo. A practice of letting go often proves to be a cathartic and surprising experience of realizing what you truly need and want in your space and in your life,” continued Danielle. “A minimalist lifestyle isn't a decor trend but a solution to many of today's top concerns, including environmental and social issues. Conscious consumption aids in financial health and reduced waste while living with less clutter offers relief from overwhelm caused by the typically busy and over-stimulated lifestyle.” For the full report, click here. |
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