WORKSHEET B1-B2
CITY LIFE VS COUNTRYSIDE LIFE
Part 1. Warm up
- What do you think makes people move from cities to villages?
- Would you like to work remotely from a quiet rural place?
- Do you think your personality fits better in a fast or slow lifestyle?
Part 2. Vocabulary
Part 3. Vocabulary 2
Part 4. Reading – City Life vs Countryside Life
For centuries, people have argued about which is better – city life or countryside life. But maybe the answer isn’t about choosing one or the other. Maybe it’s about finding a balance that fits our personality, priorities, and expectations about quality of life. In a world that keeps changing, where we live can strongly influence how we feel, work, and connect with others.
Cities are full of possibilities. They offer strong career opportunities, access to education, and a wide range of facilities such as hospitals, universities, gyms, and cultural centers. People can meet others from different backgrounds and experience culture in many forms – concerts, exhibitions, food festivals, and international events. Life in the city often feels fast and dynamic, and many people enjoy that energy. Public transport, including buses and the subway, makes it easier to move around without a car, which many find convenient, especially in large urban areas.
At the same time, city life can also be very stressful. Daily commute times are often long, and getting stuck in a traffic jam during rush hour is a common experience. Big cities are frequently overcrowded, which can increase noise levels and pollution. Although cities usually have parks and green spaces, they are often limited and crowded. The cost of living is also higher – rent is expensive, and truly affordable housing can be hard to find. While people are surrounded by others, they may still feel lonely and disconnected.
The countryside offers a very different experience. Life there is slower, calmer, and often defined by peace and quiet. The pace of life allows people to slow down, reflect, and focus on everyday moments. Mornings begin with birds instead of sirens, and people enjoy fresh air instead of smog. Many rural areas have a strong sense of community, where relationships are more neighborly, and people tend to be more friendly and supportive. This environment often helps people feel more relaxed and emotionally balanced.
Living in the countryside can also improve physical and mental health. Studies show that spending time in nature reduces stress and improves concentration. A walk through open fields or forests can be more refreshing than a crowded street. Housing is usually more affordable, and daily expenses are lower, which can positively affect overall quality of life.
However, rural life is not perfect. There are fewer job options, and access to public transport is limited. Some villages lack modern facilities, and social life depends heavily on local events. For younger people or those focused on professional growth, the countryside may feel too quiet or restrictive.
In recent years, remote work has changed the situation. Many people now choose to live outside the city while working online. This lifestyle combines city salaries with rural living, offering a healthier balance. Instead of choosing one extreme, people can design a life that suits them best.
So which is better – the city or the countryside? The answer depends on what you value most. Cities offer excitement and opportunity; rural areas offer calm and connection. What truly matters is choosing an environment that supports your goals, well-being, and happiness.