Depending on the specific nature of the apocalyptic event that prompted your flight from the cities, and depending on the relative isolation of your chosen home, you might be able to find food (in tins mostly), building materials, tools and books in the houses, villages and towns around you.

While any advancement into settled areas is a risk, with due carefulness it might be a worthwhile risk. Especially in the early months, when you have only started growing your own food, preserved and tinned food left behind by dying or fleeing people might be your only option for survival. However, do be careful!