The decision to move anywhere comes with a lot of planning, and rightfully so, but when you live in a tourist destination like the Isle of Wight, you’re faced with a hard choice.
Should you leave this beautiful island forever or take a chance in a bigger city?
Let’s take a look.
Should I Stay on the Isle of Wight, or Should I Go? Pros and Cons
As with any fun and densely populated tourist location, there are a lot of positives that come with staying on the Isle of Wight. On the other hand, there may be things you could live without.
1. Pros of Leaving: You’ll Have Access to More Universities and Accommodation
The Isle of Wight has a few state and independent schools but no universities. You also have little access to accommodations, as most small rural communities have little to offer in regards to entertainment. On the mainland, you can rent with Manchester Apartments and stay busy.
1. Cons of Leaving: Rural Communities Receive a Better Education
If you have children or plan to have children, you may want to stay on the island. While there are fewer options on the Isle of Wight, what’s there is top-notch. Due to the smaller classroom sizes in the more rural communities, your child will receive a more beneficial education.
2. Pros of Leaving: Cost of Living is Practically on Par With London
If you’re worried that the cost of living is more expensive on the mainland, don’t be. The Isle of Wight has a cost of living that’s on par with London. Groceries, rent, and entertainment are so expensive that you may need to shop for deals at Farmer Jacks just to live comfortably there.
2. Cons of Leaving: House Prices are Still Cheaper Than on the Mainland
While it’s true that living on the Isle of Wight is very expensive, the average cost of a home is £291k. This is cheaper than the average housing cost of £337k in England and Wales. If you want to get the best bang for your buck, buy a home in Shanklin, where homes are £75k.
3. Pros of Leaving: Getting a Job on the Isle of Wight is Challenging
Entrepreneurs and remote employees, as well as people working in the healthcare and Maritime industry, won’t have a problem picking up work, but almost everyone else will. We recommend getting a job before staying on the Isle of Wight so you aren’t struggling when you get there.
3. Cons of Leaving: You’ll Miss the Beach and the Hot Summer Sun
The rural residents of The Isle of Wight sing the islands’ praises because living there is a unique experience. Unlike London, which typically has dreary weather, the Isle of Wight is one of the sunniest places in the UK. That means you get to have fun in the sun really often.
4. Pros of Leaving: It’s Easier to Get Around on the Mainland
Since the Isle of Wight is a tourist location, you can get on and off the island a number of ways, so it isn’t like it’s hard to reach the mainland. Still, it’s expensive and time-consuming to actually get to a big city center. But when you’re on the mainland, getting around is so much easier.
4. Cons of Leaving: There Aren’t Many Reasons to Leave the Island
Unless you want to visit a big club, university, or a very specific attraction or fair, the Isle of Wight has everything you could ever need. You’ll still have access to plenty of food, shelter, and fun festivals. Plus, you get to spend most of your time at the beach and out in the water.
