"...For me the pluses in a country/coastal city outweigh the big cities..."
A balanced and reasoned post Mick, and I agree with you that there are many positives to both urban and regional living.
The only thing I might add is that over the years, for whatever reasons, there has been a migration from regional areas to the cities, and particularly so with the younger population.
Personally I agree with you...I prefer a regional environment, and when my time comes to relax and enjoy life, the southern coastal regions of Western Australia will become my home.