One of the most significant effects of the pandemic was the rapid adoption of remote work. With companies and employees realizing that work could be done effectively from anywhere, there was a migration from cities to more rural and affordable areas. This flexibility in work locations inspired many people to consider moving away from urban areas and investing in rural land to build a home, create a getaway, or even set up a remote business.

​

How Remote Work Boosted Rural Land Demand

​​

• Lower Cost of Living: With no need to live close to an office, many people were drawn to areas with a lower cost of living, where land and home prices are often significantly more affordable than in cities.

• Quality of Life: The desire for more space, privacy, and connection to nature became top priorities for many, and rural areas provide these in abundance.

• Investment Potential: Some buyers saw rural land as a good investment opportunity, potentially using it to generate income from farming, solar energy, or vacation rentals.

​

2. Growing Interest in Self-Sufficiency and Off-Grid Living

​

The uncertainty brought about by COVID-19 made self-sufficiency a more attractive lifestyle. Many people felt the appeal of owning land where they could grow their food, raise animals, or even live off the grid. This newfound interest in sustainability and self-reliance led to increased demand for rural land that could support these lifestyles.

​

The Allure of Sustainable and Off-Grid Lifestyles

​​

• Food Security: With supply chain disruptions and the desire for self-reliance, many people wanted a space where they could grow their produce and establish a sustainable lifestyle.

• Environmental Awareness: The pandemic led to a renewed appreciation for the environment, prompting buyers to seek spaces where they could live sustainably and minimize their ecological impact.

• Off-Grid Living: With advances in solar energy and water collection technology, off-grid living became increasingly feasible and popular, particularly among those looking to reduce dependency on urban infrastructure.

​

3. Rising Land Prices and New Investment Trends

​​

With more people looking to rural areas, the demand for vacant land surged, which in turn caused an increase in prices. Investors who typically focused on urban or suburban properties shifted their attention to rural land as they saw an untapped market with a promising future. Rural land quickly became viewed not only as a lifestyle choice but also as a long-term investment opportunity.

​​

What’s Driving the Rise in Rural Land Prices?

​​

• Increased Demand: As demand soared, rural land prices naturally followed, creating a new “hot market” outside of traditional urban real estate.

• Investment Appeal: Investors saw rural land as a low-cost entry point with high potential, particularly for those interested in leasing land for agriculture, renewable energy projects, or recreational purposes.

• Limited Inventory: Since many rural areas have fewer properties for sale than urban areas, the scarcity factor added to the competitive pricing.

​

4. Emphasis on Outdoor Recreation and Wellness

​​

With limited travel options and concerns about crowded spaces, outdoor recreation became a top priority for people during the pandemic. Rural areas, with their access to hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities, became increasingly appealing for individuals and families seeking safe ways to enjoy life outside of dense city areas. Rural land provided the perfect foundation for this wellness-driven lifestyle, allowing people to enjoy nature on their terms.

​

The Demand for Recreational Land

​​​

• Privacy and Space: Many buyers wanted land that would serve as a personal retreat where they could hike, camp, or simply unwind without the concerns of crowded recreational areas.

• Closer to Nature: Rural areas offered a chance to live in close proximity to natural features like lakes, forests, and mountains—appealing to those looking to improve their mental and physical health.

• Second Homes and Vacation Properties: With travel restrictions in place, some buyers opted to buy rural land to build vacation homes, cabins, or RV spaces, creating a personal escape they could enjoy year-round.

​

5. Digital Transformation of Real Estate Transactions

​​

COVID-19 also accelerated the digital transformation of the real estate industry, making it easier than ever to buy vacant land without needing to be physically present. Virtual tours, drone footage, and online land marketplaces allowed buyers to explore and purchase rural properties from afar. This digital accessibility widened the pool of potential buyers, as people could now explore properties nationwide without leaving their homes.

​

How Technology is Changing Rural Land Buying

​​​

• Virtual Land Tours: Technology enabled buyers to “visit” properties remotely through high-quality videos and drone footage, making rural land purchases possible from anywhere.

• Online Transactions and Financing: With online platforms offering owner-financed land and digital closing processes, purchasing rural land became accessible to buyers who couldn’t visit in person.

• Increased Transparency: Digital access to records, maps, and property details gave buyers more confidence and helped them make informed decisions on rural land investments.

​​​​​

6. Land as a Hedge Against Economic Uncertainty

​​

The pandemic brought a high degree of economic uncertainty, leading investors and individual buyers to seek assets that felt stable and tangible. Land—particularly rural, undeveloped land—emerged as a “safe” investment. Unlike stock market fluctuations or the complexities of urban real estate, vacant land represented a low-maintenance, potentially appreciating asset.

​

Rural Land’s Appeal as an Investment

​​​

• Tangible Asset: Land is a physical asset that doesn’t depreciate as quickly as other investments, giving buyers a sense of security.

• Potential for Appreciation: With increasing interest in rural living and land’s finite supply, rural properties are expected to appreciate over time.

• Diverse Use Potential: From farming to eco-tourism and renewable energy, rural land can serve many purposes, making it a versatile investment choice.

​​

Is the Rural Land Boom Here to Stay?

​​

While some aspects of the rural land boom were directly tied to COVID-19’s impact, the market's changes are likely to have lasting effects. The rise of remote work, interest in self-sufficient living, and the appreciation for natural spaces are trends that aren’t expected to vanish. Additionally, rural land continues to be an appealing investment as more people seek both a retreat and a smart addition to their portfolios.

​​​​

​Conclusion

​

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the way people think about space, home, and quality of life. For many, rural land became the answer to their evolving needs and priorities. Whether for personal use, investment, or recreational escape, rural vacant land is in higher demand than ever. With the right knowledge and guidance, investing in rural land offers a unique opportunity to benefit from the market’s ongoing transformation.

​

At KPA Land, we understand the value of rural land and are committed to helping you find the right property to suit your needs. From owner-financed options to flexible payment plans, we make rural land ownership accessible and straightforward. Reach out today and explore our listings to find your perfect piece of land!