After years of Uber-ing around town, sliding into the driver’s seat can feel overwhelming.
You’ve picked a town. You’re in love with the schools, parks, and brunch scene. You’re ready to ditch the street noise and embrace that backyard life. But then reality sets in: you might actually need to drive. Or (plot twist), learn how to drive.
If you’ve spent the last decade or two or even more navigating the city on foot, subway, and rideshare, you’re not alone. Plenty of people heading to the suburbs haven’t driven in years or, in some cases, ever. But don’t let that keep you from making a move to suburbia.
From MetroCard to Minivan?
It’s a common suburban rite of passage: you move, the baby gets sick, and suddenly you’re Googling how to install a car seat in a car you don’t even own yet. But here’s the thing: you do not have to go full SUV suburban overnight. Plenty of suburban families are one-car households. Others go months without driving thanks to walkable town centers, easy access to public transportation, and yes, shuttles that do some of the heavy lifting.
Driving-Optional Suburbs are a Thing
Think suburbia means car-commuting or bust? Think again. If you’re not ready to go full throttle into the driver’s seat, here’s what to look for when exploring towns:
Ultimate Walkability
Many suburbs have town centers where everything’s at your fingertips. From schools to coffee to dry cleaners, playgrounds, restaurants, and the train to the city, in these communities at least some neighborhoods are completely walkable. These communities make it possible to live your daily life with minimal driving, especially during the week.
Pro tip: Something to consider when moving to the suburbs: How Important Is Walkability in Your Suburban Search? Ask your Suburban Jungle strategist which towns have “sidewalk culture.” These are places where walking is the norm, not the exception.
Shuttles to Public Transit
Some commuter-friendly towns offer resident-only shuttles to nearby train stations, buses, or ferries. That means your workday commute can stay (mostly) car-free, and you won’t be fighting for a spot at the station lot. Extra points if the town has designated carpool lots or guaranteed parking for residents (our Strategists can help you find those, too).
If You Do Need to Drive…
All of this said, if you move to the suburbs, you’re probably going to need or want to get behind the wheel at some point. But don’t let that be the thing that keeps you from taking the plunge. Here’s how to make it feel less intimidating:
1. Book a Driving Lesson
Many local driving schools offer private sessions for adults who need a refresher or a total introduction. No cones and, more importantly, no judgment.
2. Practice the Real-Life Routes
Once you’ve zeroed in on a town, drive the school drop-off route. Try parking in front of the pediatrician. Map your coffee run. These small wins help build confidence before the chaos kicks in.
3. Choose a Car You Can Handle
Sure, that third-row SUV is great for carpooling. But if it feels like parallel parking a cruise ship? Start smaller. Pick a car you feel confident driving now. Upgrade later.
Still Nervous About Daily Driving? You’re in Good Company.
Whether you’re a daily commuter, weekend driver, or car-agnostic altogether, the goal is to find a suburb that fits your lifestyle right now. For some families, that means driving everywhere is totally fine. For others? Walkability and shuttles are must-haves.
At Suburban Jungle, we’ll help you figure it out and find the town that meets your needs. Whether you’re ready to become a road warrior or need a place where Uber is still your go-to, we’ve got a game plan.
Final Thought: It’s OK to Be a Little Terrified
This is a big move, and yes, driving is part of it. But like everything else, you’ll find your rhythm. You’ll learn stop sign etiquette. You’ll master the art of curbside pickup. You’ll figure out that one weird intersection everyone complains about. And one day soon? You’ll be the one giving directions to the new family in town.
Let us help you get there. Minus the GPS meltdown.
Schedule your initial strategy call. We’ll help find a town that fits your (walkable or drivable) lifestyle
