Growing up in a small Wisconsin farming town with two stoplights and about 5,000 folks—most of whom were related to each other—left me itching for a change. After high school, I made the leap to Madison, a vibrant college town and the state capital. I then spent several years in Chicago before ultimately finding my way back to—drumroll, please—the suburbs.
Despite their reputation for cookie-cutter homes and bland neighborhoods, I’ve come to realize that suburban living has some surprising perks. Sure, every location has its downsides, but let’s take a moment to celebrate what makes the suburbs special.
1. Kids Get to Be Kids Again.
In nice weather, my children stroll three-quarters of a mile to school with their friends. They dash through yards and only come home when dinner is on the table or the sun starts to set. Much like our own childhoods, we suburban parents can let our kids enjoy the outdoors without hovering, letting them scrape their knees, drink from the garden hose, and invent games while we relax inside with a sparkling water.
2. Ample Parking for Your Minivan.
No need to stress about parking here! There’s always enough space for your minivan, even if you occasionally mix up your silver Honda Odyssey with the 87 others in the lot. It’s a small price to pay for convenience.
3. Best of Both Worlds.
The suburbs offer a unique blend of urban and rural living, combining the excitement of the city with the tranquility of the countryside. It’s like the ultimate mullet haircut—business in the front, party in the back!
4. Channel Your Inner Hipster.
Remember those carefree days of youthful adventures? Wandering through galleries, discovering new eateries, and rocking out at music festivals? Nowadays, with our energy reserves depleted, we often find ourselves in bed by 9 p.m. But fear not! A quick drive into the city can spark a taste of that vibrant life. And once we’re reminded of our “age,” we can retreat back to our cozy suburban haven.
5. Chain Restaurants Galore.
Yes, the suburbs are famous for their abundance of chain restaurants like the Cheesecake Factory and Olive Garden. While some may criticize the food as mediocre, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a gigantic slice of cheesecake after a long day of dodging overly enthusiastic soccer moms.
6. Supportive Neighbors.
Need someone to walk your dog or grab your mail while you’re away? The sense of community in the suburbs means you’ll always find a neighbor willing to lend a hand, whether it’s jump-starting your minivan or just sharing a cup of sugar.
7. Excellent Public Schools.
With great public schools staffed by dedicated teachers, suburban living often provides quality education without the hefty price tag of private institutions. This allows parents to focus on the important stuff—like navigating carpool lines and prepping snacks for soccer practice.
Admittedly, I may fit the suburban mom stereotype, sporting yoga pants from Kohl’s while driving my well-loved minivan to dinner at Red Lobster. But honestly? I wouldn’t trade this life for anything. Home is where the heart is, but true happiness comes from easy parking, bottomless baskets of cheesy garlic biscuits, and embracing the quirks of suburban life.
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Summary
Living in the suburbs has its charm, offering a unique blend of community, space for children to play, and convenient living. These factors combined create a supportive environment filled with opportunities for growth and enjoyment. From great schools to friendly neighbors and even chain restaurants, the suburbs can surprise you with their perks.