Name: English Podcast - Why do people prefer to live in cities? | Intermediate
Uploaded: 2025-07-27T14:43:39.000Z
Duration: 16 min 28 s
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Hey there, welcome back to English on the Go, the podcast where we talk, laugh and learn

Adverbs of frequency

English through real, relatable conversations. I'm your host, Brian, and today we're diving into a topic that almost everyone has an opinion about – city life. Have you ever found yourself dreaming of peace and quiet in the countryside, only to remember how close your favourite coffee shop and high-speed Wi-Fi are in the city? You're not alone. In this episode, you'll hear a fun and honest chat between Leo and Nina as they explore the reasons why so many people choose to live in big cities – from career opportunities and public transport to concerts, culture and convenience. Of course, they don't ignore the downsides either, like traffic, noise and sky-high rent. So, grab your headphones and get ready to improve your English as we explore the fast-paced, colourful and sometimes chaotic world of city living. Let's get started.

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So Nina, have you ever thought about moving to the countryside? You know, a small house, some chickens, fresh air…

Honestly, sometimes I dream about it when I'm stuck in traffic. But deep down, I'm a city person. I just love the energy and convenience here.

Yeah, I get that. Life in the countryside might be peaceful, but the city has everything.

Especially when it comes to work. I mean, let's be real, most good jobs are in the city.

Totally. That's the number one reason people move here. Cities have more job opportunities, and usually the salaries are better too. If you want to grow in your career, the city is the place to be.

Right. My sister used to work in a small town. She was so talented, but couldn't find anything beyond part-time jobs. Then she moved here, and within a month, she got hired by a big company.

See? That's what I mean. And it's not just about jobs. Everything is more convenient here. You don't have to drive far just to find a supermarket or a pharmacy.

Exactly. I can walk to the store, the bank, the gym. Everything is nearby. Back in my hometown, I had to drive 20 minutes just to buy milk.

Same! Plus, we have buses, trains, taxis, you name it. Public transport makes everything easier. I haven't needed a car for years.

Me neither. My car basically just collects dust. But hey, it's not just about being practical. Cities are also full of fun.

Oh, yes. There's always something to do. Restaurants, live music, festivals, art galleries.

I went to a rooftop movie night last weekend. It was so cool. And next month, there's a jazz festival. You're coming, right?

Of course. That's what I love about cities. You never run out of options. Even just walking around can be exciting.

And the people! So many cultures, languages, and different ways of life. It's like traveling the world without leaving the city.

Exactly. I've made friends from Brazil, Japan, and Italy, all here in one place. It really opens your mind.

And don't forget the education. Cities have better schools, universities, and courses for everything. I'm actually thinking of taking a digital marketing class next month.

You should. I just started a photography workshop. It's only 10 minutes from my apartment. I love that you can keep learning and growing here.

Yeah, there's always something new to explore. But let's be real for a second. City life isn't always perfect.

There's noise, pollution, traffic jams, and let's not even talk about how expensive rent is.

Ugh, I know. I'm paying so much for a tiny apartment. And sometimes I really miss nature.

Green trees, quiet mornings, stars at night.

Me too. And the city can be stressful. Everyone's always rushing somewhere. You barely have time to breathe.

True. But even with all that, I think the positives still win. I'd rather deal with a bit of stress and have opportunities than be stuck with nothing to do.

I agree. Maybe in the future, I'll move somewhere quieter. But right now, I love the energy, the people, the lifestyle.

Yeah, for people our age, cities are perfect. You can build your career, meet interesting people, and have fun all in one place.

Exactly. I think the key is balance. Work hard, make time to relax, and don't spend all your money on bubble tea and delivery food.

Too late for me. But seriously, as long as there's fast Wi-Fi, good coffee, and a movie theater nearby, I'm good.

Same. I might complain sometimes, but I wouldn't trade city life right now. It just suits me.

100%. Even if we dream of chickens and country sunsets once in a while.

As long as those chickens come with high-speed internet, I'm in.

Before we move on, let's take a quick look at some useful vocabulary and expressions from today's conversation. These are great for everyday English, especially when talking about life in the city.

Countryside. It means rural area, land outside of cities and towns. For example, I sometimes dream of living in the countryside.

Convenience. It means the quality of being easy or practical to use or get. For example,

I love the energy and convenience of city life.

Public transport. It means buses, trains, and other systems that carry people through a city. For example, public transport makes everything easier.

Collect dust. It means to sit unused or be neglected. For example, my car basically just collects dust now.

Run out of options. It means to have none left. For example, you never run out of options in the city.

Open your mind. It means to become more accepting of different ideas or cultures. For example, meeting people from different countries really opens your mind.

Traffic jam. It means a line of vehicles stuck in slow or no movement. For example, I often dream of moving away when I'm stuck in a traffic jam.

Pollution. It means the presence of harmful substances in the environment. For example, city life has noise and pollution.

Tiny apartment. It means a very small living space. For example, I'm paying a lot for a tiny apartment.

Balance. It means a state where different things occur in equal or proper amounts. For example, the key is balance. Work hard, relax, and have fun too.

Now that you know the key words, why not go back and listen to the conversation again.

See if you can catch how these words were used and maybe even spot a few more new ones.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more great content. Click the subscribe button and stay updated with our latest episodes.

So Nina, have you ever thought about moving to the countryside? You know, a small house, some chickens, fresh air.

Yeah, I get that. Life in the countryside might be peaceful, but the city has everything, especially when it comes to work. I mean, let's be real. Most good jobs are in the city.

Totally. That's the number one reason people move here. Cities have more job opportunities and usually the salaries are better too. If you want to grow in your career, the city is the place to be.

Right. My sister used to work in a small town. She was so talented but couldn't find anything beyond part-time jobs. Then she moved here and within a month, she got hired by a big company.

See, that's what I mean. And it's not just about jobs. Everything is more convenient here. You don't have to drive far just to find a supermarket or a pharmacy.

Me neither. My car basically just collects dust.

But hey, it's not just about being practical. Cities are also full of fun.

Oh yes. There's always something to do. Restaurants, live music, festivals, art galleries. It's impossible to get bored.

Exactly. I've made friends from Brazil, Japan, and Italy all here in one place. It really opens your mind.

You should! I just started a photography workshop. It's only ten minutes from my apartment.

I love that you can keep learning and growing here.

Definitely not. There's noise, pollution, traffic jams, and let's not even talk about how expensive rent is.

I agree. Maybe in the future I'll move somewhere quieter. But right now, I love the energy, the people, the lifestyle.

One hundred percent. Even if we dream of chickens and country sunsets once in a while.

Alright, let's quickly review the main reasons why people prefer to live in cities. If you're taking notes or studying for a test, this part is perfect for you.

First, jobs and career growth. Cities offer a wide range of careers and higher-paying jobs. Easier networking and professional growth.

Second, convenient living. More hospitals, schools, shopping centers, and public transport.

Third, entertainment and lifestyle options. Restaurants, cinemas, theaters, concerts, gyms, and events. More things to do in free time.

Fourth, education and training opportunities. Universities, language schools, workshops.

Fifth, diverse and modern environment. People from different backgrounds. More open-minded culture. Faster lifestyle. Exposure to new trends and ideas.

And finally, downsides of city life. Stress, noise, cost of living, and less green space.

But people still choose cities for the opportunities and excitement.

And that's a wrap for today's episode. We've heard why so many people, just like

Nina and Leo, choose to live in cities. Whether it's the career opportunities, the convenience, or just the buzz of city life, it's clear that urban living has a lot to offer.

Of course, it's not perfect. There's traffic, noise, and yes, sky-high rent. But for many, the energy and possibilities of city life still win.

So what about you? Are you more of a city person, or do you dream of quiet mornings in the countryside? Take a moment to reflect. And maybe even chat with a friend in English about it.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review. And check out the episode notes for today's vocabulary list and a free PDF to help you review.

Until next time, keep exploring, keep learning, and as always, learn everywhere, speak everywhere.

See you in the next episode of English on the Go.

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English Podcast - Why do people prefer to live in cities? | Intermediate

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