Some people find life in the countryside more comfortable than in large cities. Illustration photo by VnExpress/Truong Ha
I decided to return to my rural hometown as a cup of milk tea in the city costs as much as a meal for an entire family in the countryside.
Many people believe that moving to the countryside is a dead end because there are few career prospects. However, this may not be the case in reality as clearly not everyone in the countryside is poor and struggling.
Rural areas vary significantly. I live in a more developed rural region where many companies and industrial parks have emerged. Workers from my hometown can earn around VND 7-8 million (US$280-320) per month, with those frequently working overtime making VND 12-15 million.
Moving to the countryside is no longer just about how old you are but also about what makes you feel comfortable. My decision to return to my hometown has provided me with lower living costs, more available homes, and proximity to family, neighbors, and relatives. Living expenses in the countryside are affordable, with utilities and food totaling around VND 2-3 million per month.
In contrast, my monthly rent and utility bills in the city were around VND 4-5 million, in addition to the cost of food. For example, the price of a cup of bubble tea in the city could cover a nice meal for an entire family in the countryside.
Many young people I know graduate from university and struggle to find jobs in Hanoi. After seven or eight years, their salaries can only cover rent and necessities. Their lives seem much more challenging than those of us in the countryside.
The unemployment rate in big cities is quite high, which means a lot of people living there are unemployed.
Moving to rural areas is often seen as naive and likely to lead to disappointment. However, my experience suggests that rural areas today are brimming with job opportunities. The key is to identify your purpose there, whether it involves running a business or producing goods.
With a solid market for your products and strong business connections, you might only need to grow vegetables or raise chickens or fish to achieve a good income.
Why cling to big cities if you can find greener pastures in the countryside?
*This opinion was translated into English with the assistance of AI. Readers’ views are personal and do not necessarily match VnExpress’ viewpoints.
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