Demographic Trends in Rural and Small Town America

This report includes information on: An Overview of Demographic Change Historically, rural places have lost population. However, since the rural rebound of the 1970s, the story of migration into and out of rural areas has become more complex. Changes in Racial and Ethic Diversity Immigration and racial diversity has increased in rural places, and will likely continue to increase. New Realities Farming no longer dominates. Places with high amenities are attracting new migrants into rural areas. Policy Considerations As policymakers consider responses to the issues being faced in nonmetropolitan areas, it is critical that rural constituencies have a seat at the table