9 Ways Homesteading Could Benefit Your Family

Homesteading is a lifestyle choice that many people are turning to in search of a simpler life, with greater self-reliance, sustainability, and a connection to the land. But what exactly is homesteading, and why might you want to consider it for yourself? Whether you're curious about the trend or seriously thinking about making the leap like we are, this blog post will break down what homesteading is and why it could be the right choice for you.

What Is Homesteading?

At its core, homesteading is about living a self-sufficient, sustainable life. It's a lifestyle that revolves around growing your own food, raising animals for food or fiber, and generally reducing reliance on modern systems and consumerism. While the concept of homesteading has evolved over the years, it still retains its roots in being able to live more independently and on your own terms.

In the traditional sense, homesteading began with the Homestead Act of 1862 in the United States, where individuals were given land to settle, farm, and develop. In modern times, homesteading doesn’t always mean living on a large farm or in isolation. It can happen on small suburban lots, urban rooftops, or off-grid properties. The idea is to become more connected to the basics of life—food, shelter, and community.

I grew up in rural Iowa in a farming community where life was slower paced, simpler, more satisfying. I’ve been away for 40 years and would love to get back to an area where I can raise much of my own food, be less susceptible to price inflation when there are food shortages, and know exactly what went into the food my family eats.

What Does Homesteading Look Like Today?

Homesteading today can look quite different depending on your interests, the amount of land you have, and your level of commitment. Some people homestead in rural areas with large plots of land, while others create homesteads in smaller urban spaces.

Here are some examples of what modern homesteading might involve:

• Growing your own food: You might have a vegetable garden, orchard, or greenhouse.

• Raising animals: Many homesteaders raise chickens, goats, pigs, or even bees for food, milk, eggs, or honey.

• Building your own shelter: Some homesteaders choose to build tiny homes, cabins, or even off-grid houses.

• Sustainable energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and rainwater collection systems help reduce reliance on external resources.

• Canning and preserving: Homesteaders often preserve food through canning, freezing, or dehydrating to store for the winter months.

• Making things from scratch: From soap-making to baking sourdough bread, homesteaders often embrace traditional, hands-on crafts and self-sufficiency.

9 Ways Homesteading Could Benefit Your Family

Now that we've covered what homesteading is, let's dig into why you might want to pursue this lifestyle. While the appeal of homesteading is unique to each person, here are some of the most common reasons people choose this path:

1. Greater Self-Sufficiency

One of the biggest draws of homesteading is the freedom and control it offers. You become less dependent on outside sources for food, energy, and other essential needs. By growing your own food and raising animals, you're taking back control of what you consume and how it's produced.

2. Living More Sustainably

Homesteading encourages sustainability, which is becoming increasingly important as we face environmental challenges. Growing your own food and reducing your carbon footprint can help decrease waste and environmental degradation. Many homesteaders embrace zero-waste practices, composting, and utilizing renewable energy sources like solar power.

3. A Closer Connection to Nature

Modern life can sometimes feel disconnected from the natural world. Homesteading offers an opportunity to reconnect with the land, animals, and the seasons and to enjoy the beauty and complexity of God’s creation. The physical work involved—gardening, caring for animals, building structures—gives you a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment that many people find lacking in urban or office-based jobs.

4. Financial Independence

While homesteading does require an initial investment in land, tools, and resources, it can lead to long-term financial independence. Growing your own food reduces grocery bills, raising animals can provide income or savings, and living off the land often means fewer expenses on utilities and products that are purchased in stores.

5. A Simpler, Slower Pace of Life

Homesteading often appeals to people seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. It’s a lifestyle that values simplicity, quiet, and hard work over materialism and speed. The slower pace of homesteading can lead to a more balanced, peaceful life—free from the constant pressure of deadlines, traffic, and technology.

6. Healthier Living

By growing your own food, you control what goes into your diet. You can avoid harmful chemicals, pesticides, and preservatives commonly found in store-bought produce. Raising animals for milk, eggs, or meat allows you to provide healthier, organic options for your family. Plus, the physical labor involved in homesteading often leads to a more active, healthier lifestyle.

7. Strengthening Family and Community Bonds

Homesteading is a great way to bring family members together. The tasks involved in homesteading—cooking, gardening, building—require teamwork, which can strengthen relationships. Many homesteaders also seek out local communities for support, exchanging goods, advice, and ideas with others who share similar goals.

8. Living with Purpose

Homesteading allows you to live with greater intention. The work you do is connected directly to your daily needs, whether that’s growing food to feed your family or building a shelter to keep them safe. For many people, this creates a strong sense of purpose and accomplishment.

9. Learning New Skills

Homesteading is an opportunity to become a lifelong learner. You’ll acquire a broad range of practical skills—gardening, animal husbandry, building, cooking, preserving, and more. There’s a certain satisfaction in doing something by hand, learning how to troubleshoot problems, and creating things from scratch.

Final Thoughts

Homesteading isn’t just about getting off the grid or living in the wilderness—it’s about taking control of your life, living with intention, and embracing a sustainable, fulfilling way of life. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of growing your own food, becoming less reliant on outside systems, or just living a simpler life, homesteading offers many rewards.

If you're considering homesteading, ask yourself if you’re ready for the challenge. It’s hard work, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. And for many people, it’s a life worth choosing.

In our next post, we’ll be looking at the topic “Is Homesteading Right for You? 10 Questions to Ask Yourself First”