Mapping the Rural Migration of Young Americans

Younger Americans, particularly those aged 25 to 44, are increasingly moving from urban areas to rural regions, reshaping local demographics and economies. This trend, observed since 2020, is driven by new work opportunities and the appeal of natural surroundings, with significant migration to areas like the Colorado Rockies and Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Rural counties have seen a rise in new businesses and income, contrasting with stagnant or declining young adult populations in major cities. This shift is part of a broader economic movement towards the South, with rural areas experiencing a notable boom.