Yea, I'm all for downsizing from large urban to small town. I agree, that it would be a perfect first step for a life long city dweller.
Around here, however, all the small towns have turned into a big sprawling urban area.
The biggest issue is jobs, as Pastor Joe alludes to, but with today's technology, working form home should be doable. It just takes companies to realize the benefit of not having a ton of office space. When you are used to making a good salary, it is hard to contemplate moving to a small town and making much less. It requires a mindset change and that usually requires a significant life changing event.