Lockdown leaves young people craving a country life

More than a third of 25-34 yr olds are considering upping sticks to the country says new research into rural aspirations.

At Muddy Matches country life dating, we have seen a new era of countryside dater land on our well trodden welcome mat during the now 150 days of lockdown.

Whilst we are awash with new faces looking for someone to share their rekindled appreciation for nature and fresh air with, it is the hike in singletons aged 18-30 – the ‘swipe right app generation’ – signing up to enjoy the homely comforts of our more traditional, good mannered style of online dating that has been the most dramatic.

And it appears that craving for country life in younger generations is indeed real with new research reporting that more than a third of 25-34 year olds surveyed are genuinely considering a life-changing move to the countryside such has been the level of self reflection brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The independent survey, commissioned by off-grid energy supplier Northern Energy, states that 37% of all 25-34 year olds questioned said they were thinking of upping sticks from their urban habitats to somewhere more green and pleasant.

A staggering 74% of recipients also says that this is the first time they have considered such a prospect, citing the worries around Coronavirus as the main reason for their desire to relocate.

Almost half admitted that they’d ‘feel safer’ living in the countryside whilst over 40% said they’d be tempted by fresh air and breathtaking views.

Take age out the mix and it is believed that 1 in 5 Brits taking part in the Northern Energy survey hold real rural aspirations and would give valuable headspace and thought to switching their built up urban lifestyle for one in the country (though we don’t agree with the 50% who said a simple life rurally offered ‘stress free’ living – just tell that to those working the land in all weather).

At Muddy Matches, we play rural romantic to over 300,000 country-loving singletons; from farmers and agricultural workers to horse lovers, hill walkers, dog owners and residents in rural communities.

So the Muddy Matches experience is one that can definitely set the tone and act as a stepping stone for those dipping their toe into a life less concrete; with town and city dwellers digging out their wellies and walking boots keen to test the water, so to speak.

Muddy Matches are the UK’s leading countryside online dating service by a clear country mile. Award winning and trusted, Muddy Matches’ specialise in matching outdoor loving singles who share a passion for mud on their boots for over 12 years, helping more than 1/2 million rural and remote members unearth someone to explore life’s adventures with.