Try That in a Small Town

By: J. David Chapman/August 9/6/ 2024

The recent controversy surrounding Jason Aldean's song "Try That in a Small Town" has been significant and multifaceted, drawing both praise and criticism. The song, which was released earlier this year, sparked a political and cultural debate, particularly after the release of its music video. The public’s reaction to this song, and challenges facing urban centers such as overcrowding, high living costs, and environmental concerns, make me speculate if we might see a migration to smaller cities after experiencing movements from rural communities to urban centers in recent years.

Several factors suggest that this trend could gain momentum in the coming years. One of the primary drivers behind the potential migration to smaller cities is the rising cost of living in major urban centers. In many large cities, housing prices have soared to unaffordable levels, pushing residents to look for more affordable options. Smaller cities often offer lower housing costs, lower taxes, and generally more affordable living expenses.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, which has become a permanent fixture in many industries. As more companies embrace flexible work arrangements, employees are no longer tethered to the physical location of their employers making the relocation to a smaller town possible.

Smaller cities often boast a higher quality of life, characterized by less traffic, lower crime rates, and a stronger sense of community. For those seeking a slower pace of life, more green spaces, and a greater connection with nature, smaller cities can be very appealing.

Urban centers are often plagued by pollution, traffic congestion, and other environmental challenges. Smaller cities, by contrast, may offer cleaner air, more green spaces, and a more sustainable way of living. However, moving to smaller cities is not without its challenges. Some smaller cities may lack the same level of job opportunities, cultural amenities, or diversity found in larger urban centers.

Additionally, there could be a learning curve for those accustomed to the fast-paced, highly connected lifestyle of big cities. Smaller cities may need to adapt quickly to accommodate an influx of new residents, which could strain their infrastructure, housing markets, and public services. While it’s too early to predict a wholesale migration from large urban centers to smaller cities, the factors driving such a trend are compelling and worth considering.

Dr. J. David Chapman is Professor of Finance & Real Estate at The University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu)