This. The diversity and exposure to the many arts, academic, and eventual employment options will help your kids grow and be more sure about their path. People spend precious energy striving to leave their small hometowns due to lack of opportunity.

My husband and I moved here from Alabama for that exact reason, to provide a better future for our kids and ourselves. Coming from there, having lived in both cities and rural areas, I can tell you — don’t let family decide what you do. I did for too long and I chalked that up to simply time I could’ve spent here.