The 15 Best Places to Buy a Country Home in the US | United Country Real Estate | United Country
15 Best Places to Own a Country Home
If you’re tired of all the stress and anxiety that comes with living in the city, perhaps this is a sign for you to buy a place in the country. Country homes are selling fast today as more and more people love the idea of a laid-back lifestyle, wide-open spaces, a yard, and an easy commute.
But where exactly should you go? The best places to own a home in the United States typically contain bustling cities.
Fortunately, there’s a separate list of the best places to own a country home. The Progressive Farmer publication issued a February list that details numerous counties where you can find a suitable a country home.
In our list, in conjunction with Far and Wide’s list of the best small towns, these rural cities were chosen based on several factors including health care, access to education, crime rate, picturesque surroundings, taxes, availability of commodities, transportation, and so on.
Take a look!
Rocheport, Missouri
Ride or walk down the Katy Trail, shop for artisan crafts and taste the delicious regional wine at the famous vineyards. Rocheport is a town with a population of less than 300, but there is no shortage of culture present here. Theatre, hand-made goods and extraordinary eateries thrive amidst the residents.
The popular, 225-mile trail attracts races and competitions, tourists and locals looking for relaxation or recreation in nature. Ride along and witness the beauty of the Missouri countryside.
Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia
Find your home on the riverfront in this historic community. As the meeting place for the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, this neighborhood is in an ideal location with easy accessibility to several larger cities and in the middle of the Appalachian Trail.
Learn all about this fascinating area at one of the many Civil War and other historic exhibits. Hike along the famous trail, hunt, fish or try your hand at water sports in this town in the country.
Keystone, South Dakota
Just a short drive from the Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a charming small town and tourist destination. You’ll find home among the Black Hills region with the scenic mountains and dense forest. Outdoor recreational adventures are a breeze with several national parks and forests in close proximity.
If quiet and cool mornings and warm and starry nights is something you desire, then be sure to make your stop in Keystone for the tranquility that only a small mountain town can offer.
Ellicottville, New York
All four seasons are filled with beauty and enjoyment in this New York town of less than 400. With fall comes vibrant and gorgeous hues from the Allegheny National Forest; once the snow comes in winter, try out skiing; the spring clears out great hiking trails; and take advantage of the good weather at the adventure park in the summer.
You won’t find big chains or corporations here. The city banned national franchises in order to encourage small businesses and individuality.
Jasper, Arkansas
True outdoorsmen will find paradise in this humble Ozark city. Unparalleled forests, lakes and the distinguished Ozark Mountains provide ideal habitation for all sorts of wildlife and game such as elk, whitetail deer, quail and waterfowl. The town even throws a festival every year in honor of the elk.
Fall foliage and quaint downtowns filled with antique stores entice visitors from all over to this town. Find your peace and quiet in the midst of the great beauty here.
Medicine Park, Oklahoma
Named for it’s supposed healing powers, Medicine Park is conveniently located just an hour south of Oklahoma City. While the benefits of the big city are certainly visible, this town only boasts a population of less than 500.
Lake Lawtonka and the Wichita Mountains bring wilderness to this region, allowing for unparalleled hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding and more. This humble home has seen many notable figures over the years such as Will Rogers and Bonnie and Clyde.
Bell Buckle, Tennessee
Nostalgia reigns in this small town tucked away just south of Nashville. Moon Pies and RC Cola, the iconic snacks, originated from this community of 500. In fact, each summer they host a RC Cola-Moon Pie Festival with attendees from across the world and unique foods, contests and performances to top it off.
Stop by the antique shops and get a peek at the exquisite Victorian homes that make up the neighborhoods. Visit the Chattanooga River down the road to fish, swim, boat and more outdoor adventures.
Helen, Georgia
This unique town decided to make a change to the culture to invigorate the area, and they succeeded. Helen became a Little Bavaria along the Chattahoochee River and has committed to the South German aesthetic throughout the town. Oktoberfest attracts visitors to this town of less than 600 for lively entertainment and competitions each year.
While this picturesque getaway is nestled in the Appalachians rather than the Alps, you’ll fall in love with this close-knit and festive neighborhood.
Silverton, Colorado
Discovered by prospectors amongst the San Juan Mountains in the late 19th century, Silverton is the jackpot for those who appreciate villages with original architecture and modest populations. Less than 1,000 residents make up this town, but this hidden oasis offers hiking, skiing and other activities, as well as a breathtaking train ride.
Tourism is a strong part of this town’s culture and economy as there are many notable mountains bordering Silverton, giving panoramic views and epic adventures at every step.
Magnolia Springs, Alabama
With magnolia trees sprinkled across the acres and springs stretching across the borders, it is clear how this charming town earned its name. If a sweet, southern small-town sounds like paradise, then look no further. A simple, pastoral paradise, Magnolia Springs doesn’t boast a bustling city life, but provides a tranquility like no other.
This community is the only U.S. town to still to have a year-round postal service that bring mail by boat. Enjoy all that the Magnolia River brings or head down to the Gulf.
Talkeetna, Alaska
If a winter wonderland at the foot of the nation’s tallest mountain sounds like a slice of heaven to you, then look no further. In the shadow of Mount McKinley is Talkeetna, a city along the edge of the Denali National Park. Listed as a National Historic Site, the Nagley’s Store has been in operation since the early 20th century.
Appreciate the abundant wildlife that call this same region home such as bears, wolves, foxes, moose, caribou and more beautiful animals. Hike, fish, hunt, camp-out and ride on your horse or ATV with some of the most amazing views here.
Saugatuck, Michigan
A famous art colony in the 19th century, Saugatuck is defined by its rich, artistic community of less than 1,000 and the stunning Oval Beach. Outdoor recreation of all kinds is encouraged with Lake Michigan, Mount Baldhead, Saugatuck Dunes State Park and Allegan State Game Area all within the region. Enjoy water sports, riding ATVs or horses, hiking, hunting or fishing just outside your door.
For those who prefer the beauty and complexity that can be created indoors will be thrilled with the dozens of art galleries, wineries and high-end restaurants sprinkled around the area.
Augusta, Kentucky
Named the “Most Picturesque City” in all of Kentucky, Augusta is a beautiful small town nestled along the Ohio River. Just more than 1,000 residents make up this small and culturally diverse community. Cincinnati is less than an hour away, offering quick access big city amenities without the hassle of a bustling city.
Spend your time exploring the great outdoors, indulging in the award-wining local wines or nourishing your soul at a historic B&B getaway.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Find rest and relaxation on the shoreline of Cannon Beach. Adventurers will also find sanctuary here with many opportunities for sea-cave diving and miles of trails in Ecola State Park. Mild and warm summers along with easy-going and wet winters allows for the beauty of the changing seasons without the trouble of extreme heat or cold.
With a population of less than 2,000, adventures or relaxation can be achieved without the pollution of an overly populated area. Seek out this hidden gem to live each day like a vacation.
Taos, New Mexico
Diverse, beautiful and historic, Taos is a small, rural city of just more than 2,000 residents. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains bordering the town offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities for many outdoor adventures.
This desert escape is home to artists and free-spirits, attracting museums and galleries to this picturesque town. Featured in iconic films such as “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” and “Easy Rider” it is clear this desert getaway is one-of-a-kind.
Ready To Purchase Your Dream Home?
You can find a place to purchase practically anywhere, but why choose a busy and stressful city when you can find somewhere that’s fun and relaxing?
Take a good look at the areas listed above and choose your perfect spot for a county home. Note, though, that no matter where you intend to settle, it’s important to choose a local real estate agent to help you with your transaction.
This guarantees you’ll have direct access to agents who know exactly what’s happening on the ground.
