Why Repatriates Are Choosing Smaller Towns over Yerevan
Many people associate the idea of immigration to Armenia with Yerevan more or less exclusively. The best-known spots in the country have historically been Lake Sevan, several famous monasteries in isolated areas, and, of course, the capital. For many years, Yerevan was the primary target for repat settlement.
But all of this is quickly changing as an increasing number of repats are falling in love with the regions. In fact, many people are finding the country’s smaller towns and villages to be more authentically “Armenian” than Yerevan. There are multiple reasons for this shift.
Cost of Living: Affordable Living Outside the Capital
One of the biggest draws to living outside the capital is the significantly lower cost of living in villages. Yerevan may offer lower prices than Western Europe or North America, but villages are far cheaper still.
The cost of living for an individual in Yerevan is estimated at approximately 663,000 Armenian dram (almost 1600 USD) per month. People hoping to live in refurbished, modern apartments will pay close to Western prices for rent. By contrast, living in a village can cost as little as 80-100,000 dram per month. Repats with even moderate savings can live comfortably for an extended period and not have to worry about money.
Access to Nature and Tranquility
Armenia’s nature is truly a wonder to behold. Living among the mountains and having daily access to fresh air, local produce, and the peace and tranquility that comes with rural living offer people a totally new perspective on life. Gone is the hustle and bustle of city life, and people can really get in touch with the land and understand why it has been sacred to Armenians for thousands of years.
From the peaks of Aragats to the mineral waters of Jermuk to the forested hills surrounding Dilijan, Armenia has everything that a nature lover could want. People who settle in rural areas are able to experience this wonder on a daily basis.
Community and Connection to Culture
Not only do repats have increased access to nature when they move to rural areas, but they are invariably welcomed with open arms as full-fledged members of their new communities. Repats in towns and villages frequently talk of deep relationships formed with neighbors, shopkeepers, and local business people. After all, what is repatriation but the fundamental reconnecting of patriot and country?
These relationships consistently prove to be lifelong, and they offer repats not only camaraderie and friendship, but a much fuller understanding of what it means to be Armenian. Having extended dinners with neighbors, participating in village wedding celebrations, and taking part in the country’s numerous seasonal festivals are experiences people never forget.
Growing Infrastructure and Development
One of the things that has historically deterred potential repats from moving to villages is a concern about poor infrastructure and lack of development. While these concerns were definitely legitimate in the early post-independence period, things have been changing dramatically in recent years.
Cities like Gyumri, Vanadzor, and Dilijan now boast many features that meet even the highest international standards. Not only are roads and basic infrastructure vastly improved, but these cities offer modern coworking spaces and event venues, new cafes and restaurants, and reliable accommodations. Thanks to organizations like the Children of Armenia Fund, more and more small villages are also being equipped with modern educational, healthcare, recreational, and other facilities that rival Western ones in sophistication.
Access to Local History and Cultural Heritage
Armenia’s rural areas are veritable treasure troves of history. Small historical wonders regularly appear in unexpected places. In the regions, people learn about famous people and events that have shaped local history.
Repats in Gyumri become familiarized with the city’s rich cultural history as the home of famous artists and writers. Local buildings tell tales of times past. The Syunik region has its own unique history altogether. And it is only by living in these places for extended periods that repats truly appreciate their local character.
Lower Stress and Healthier Lifestyle
Fully adjusting to rural and semi-urban life often brings about a major change in people's well-being. People learn to appreciate their surroundings to a much greater degree, their stress levels go down, and their health improves as a result.
This all takes time, of course, but many who have made the move later say that they no longer wish to return to their former lives. The movement is paving the way for a whole new Armenia, one that both thrives upon and gives back to the land itself. And this is what immigration to Armenia is all about.
Give village life a try
If you are wondering how to move to Armenia but are hesitant to make such a major change all at once, consider giving it a try for a short period. As mentioned above, the cost of living in an Armenian village is extraordinarily low compared to many other parts of the world.
Some repatriates have moved to villages experimentally - initially for a short period of time - and found the lifestyle so preferable that they have simply decided to stay. With the growing number of positive testimonials has come an increase in rural living popularity overall. So you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain by trying out life in an Armenian village.
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