Staunton, VA. Photo: C.W.Clark, Flickr
Selecting your small town is the first task for an urban escapee. Ideally, you want to locate a creative micropolitan which will allow you to retain the positive elements of city life with the benefits of small town lifestyle.
Your “creative micropolitan” city selection process should not be taken lightly. This site will explore how to do this research in depth. Each small town is unique and offers pros/cons based on your personal preference.
Knowing the general “types” of small towns available is the first step in the selection process to find your ideal “creative micropolitan”.
College Towns
College towns frequently offer cultural and artistic opportunities beyond the resources of the town itself. The college can greatly impact the town’s attitudes and so should be considered carefully.
Dying Towns
Small towns facing extreme poverty and outmoded economic models (e.g. factory towns) represent the most risky move. While they may offer the most flexibility at the cheapest prices, you may also find an uphill battle creating an environment you desire. (Should you try to create your own environment in a small town? More on that later.) On the plus side, creative and/or experimental living is greatest in a place with few established rules or community expectations.
Resort Towns
Resort towns frequently have the highest amounts of shopping and dining options as well as (generally) appreciating real estate. However, a potential drawback is what happens to these amenities during the “off season”. Is it worth the “down time”, or do you plan to be elsewhere during this time, too?
Theme Towns
Some small towns decide on a theme and stick with it – whether it be architectural, ethnic, historical, or entertainment-based. Best to be equally passionate about the existing theme and don’t entertain ideas of “changing things up”. There is still room for creativity here but the overall environment may be overwhelmingly dedicated to promoting a singular theme for tourist business.
What’s your favorite small town, and does it reflect one of the above categories?
Related articles
- RECAP..I still love Staunton.. (lizbeavers.com)
