There are lots of misconceptions about people who live in the middle of nowhere. A common rural stereotype is that we’re conservative rednecks. However, all sorts of people reside out in the country. After all, one in five Americans call rural areas home according to the Census Bureau. To help you understand this part of the nation better, here are 8 myths about country dwellers that simply aren’t true.
1. We’re All Conservatives
One of the most common rural stereotypes is that we’re all conservatives. It’s true that many rural areas lean red. However, if you drive through farm country during election season, you’ll see a variety of political signs. Rural households are diverse and don’t all vote or think the same way. Some of us even support third-party candidates or choose not to get involved in politics at all, so don’t paint us with such a broad brush!
2. We’re All Broke
While it’s true that rural areas can be poverty-stricken, not all country dwellers are broke. Many of us work in nearby cities and have good, stable jobs. We could afford to live in suburban or urban areas but prefer the peace and quiet of the country.
This misconception is also easy to disprove by driving around rural areas. You’ll see that many households have enough income to afford toys like trucks, RVs, and four-wheelers.
3. We’re Insular
Another rural stereotype is that we’re unwelcoming. The idea that we shun outsiders is pervasive, but it’s absolutely false! When I moved to the country, my neighbors treated me like family and even invited me to holiday gatherings. While there may be some pockets of cliquey behavior in rural areas, for the most part, we’re a warm and hospitable bunch.
4. We’re Antisocial
Some people believe that country dwellers live in the middle of nowhere because they’re antisocial. However, this is a common rural stereotype that just isn’t true. In my community, neighbors frequently drop by each other’s houses unannounced to chat. We have social clubs and third places like Elk Lodges and churches where the community gathers.
Just because our properties are larger and more spread out doesn’t mean we ignore each other. It’s common to see someone you know at the local supermarket and stand around chatting for half an hour. No one is in a rush out in the country, which gives us more opportunities to socialize.
5. We’re Uneducated
There’s no denying that some rural school districts are understaffed and lack resources. However, this doesn’t mean that country folks are uneducated, which is a common rural stereotype. Many young adults leave their small hometowns to pursue higher education and return years later. Plus, most rural communities have internet access, which enables us to learn new skills just as easily as city dwellers. Additionally, some rural areas have community colleges or even full-fledged universities within driving distance, which helps improve educational attainment rates.
6. We’re All Farmers
If you believe the common misconception that we’re all farmers, I don’t blame you. Rural areas do have much more agricultural activity on the whole. Even people who aren’t farm owners usually have a garden and a green thumb. While many of us work outside of agriculture in necessary fields like retail and law enforcement, I get where this misunderstanding comes from.
7. We’re Perpetually Bored
City folks seem to think that people in rural areas are constantly bored. However, most of us have lots of hobbies that keep us busy. Country folks are usually avid hikers, hunters, fishers, foragers, and gardeners. Some of us enjoy more niche outdoor activities like rockhounding, geocaching, metal detecting, or gold panning. We also use our extra square footage to enjoy space-intensive hobbies like woodworking and canning. Rural folks are always learning useful skills and finding new ways to occupy their time.
8. We’re Uncultured
Last but not least, a common rural stereotype is that we’re uncultured. Many people think that there aren’t any cultural activities or institutions out in the country. However, there are half a dozen museums located within 30 minutes of my house. Lots of historic events took place in the country, so many rural areas have landmarks and old houses you can tour.
My area also has a thriving music scene because our casinos attract well-known singers. You never know what kind of cultural activities you’ll find in rural areas, but rest assured that there are ways to get the enrichment you desire.
Don’t Believe Every Rural Stereotype
Before I moved to the country, I heard lots of rural stereotypes and even believed a few. But in my experience, negative misconceptions about small towns usually aren’t true. On the whole, rural folks are kind, resourceful people. If you get to know us, you’ll realize that many of these myths don’t hold water.