Urban escape, rural escape, is that possible? No, say 800 representative Austrians. And yet city and country touch very differently…
Christina lives in the Lungau Zederhaus. Just over 1000 inhabitants, just over 100 kilometers by car to Salzburg, even over 130 to Klagenfurt. For the 28-year-old, however, this is not disturbing. She has everything close by, she arranges the rest by car. According to a survey by the Institute for Demoscopy & Data Analysis (IFDD) among 800 Austrians, many think like Christina.
For example, 92 percent of rural residents definitely do not want to move to a metropolitan area in the next three years. Only five percent can imagine exchanging the green meadows and forests for the rows of houses. For 87 percent of rural residents surveyed, these forest areas are one of the main reasons why they feel comfortable in their area. 72 percent appreciate having family and friends close by. Seven out of ten respondents like not to be permanently exposed to noise pollution, and their neighbors are at least a feel-good factor for 56 percent. At one percent and two percent respectively, entertainment and educational opportunities as a feel-good factor in quieter areas are still a long way off. Even public transport (only eight percent) is not a reason to move to the country. On the contrary: 90 percent of the respondents in the Länder usually use the car as a means of transport.
The city scores especially with public transport and hospitals
Anyone who thinks that in times of astronomical increases in rents, purchase prices and gas bills, the widely feared urban flight will automatically take place is of course wrong. Because 88 percent of city dwellers do not see their future in more remote areas of Austria either. Instead, the short distances to your closest friends and family are probably just as attractive (74 percent) here as they are in the countryside. The big differences? It is therefore not surprising that medical care is highly valued in cities (61 percent). Also the much better developed public transport (52%). Because in cities, 61 percent of those surveyed often use trains, buses and trams to make their daily journeys. In rural areas it is only 15 percent. Surprising: 49 percent of the city dwellers surveyed indicate that they like to live in the city because of the greenery.
On the other hand, the nightlife with its clubs and bars is only important for young urbanites under the age of 30 (49%), the rest (12%) do not necessarily see moving as a reason to go to Vienna, Graz or Linz.
Countryside holidays are the most popular for the majority
When it comes to vacation, city and country show unity. 70 percent want to be in the countryside, city holidays are only attractive among young people (33%). Opinions are divided on whether living in the country is cheaper. That’s not the case, say 48 percent.
Opinions differ about care. 37 percent of city dwellers think this is a family affair. In rural areas (41%), this task is often taken over by family members. Incidentally, many more women (47%) than men (34%). 49 percent see the state or private institutions as more responsible for care. Mr. and Mrs. Austria show satisfaction (66%) with the healthcare system. Mostly guys of course, who rarely use it…
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
