We recently moved for a place with more driveway to park all my shenanigans. We looked to the country, and made the realization that running kids into town, even just 15 miles would be a huge suckfest. We have 2 left at home yet, both of which are not driving yet. My kids are in tons of sports, church activities, and camps..etc. Driving them into town a couple times a day would not be conducive. When we reach the empty nest stage in life, maybe, but I don't think mrs johnr is to keen on bugs, gravel, wild critters, and well water.
You sir, hit the nail on the head, especially with that last sentence. The saying "Happy Wife, Happy Life" is so very true...
Also, while I don't think the time in the vehicle would bother me, I like my vehicles to be reasonably clean. Driving on gravel every day would abraid my psyche I think...