Millennials and Gen Z Individuals Flee Cities for Rural Life
A recent analysis of 2024 census data by the University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service has revealed a significant exodus of young-ish people from big cities to rural areas. This age bracket, including millennials and millennials-adjacent individuals, is not moving to the countryside to retire, but rather to benefit their families, jobs, finances, and mental and physical health.
Between 1980 and 2020, nearly 80% of U.S. population growth among adults ages 25-44 was concentrated in metro areas with a million-plus residents. However, post-2020, most of the growth experienced in rural areas has been driven by individuals in this same age bracket.
Experts and individuals who have made the move to rural life cite several reasons for the migration, including a desire for community, mental health, and cost of living. Many have found that the slower pace of rural life allows them to build meaningful social interactions and deeper connections with others, leading to a sense of belonging and social support.
Some of the benefits of rural living include reduced financial stressors, increased time for creative pursuits, and improved mental health. Many individuals who have made the move have found that they can pursue careers they are passionate about, be closer to their families, and enjoy a better work-life balance.
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider, such as limited access to certain amenities and services, including food delivery and major airports. Additionally, some individuals may miss the fast-paced and diverse lifestyle of city living.
Despite these challenges, many individuals who have made the move to rural life have found that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. As one individual noted, “I don’t do quite as much walking or climbing stairs as I did living in the city, but I can go for a run or a hike and breathe in fresh air here in upstate New York, and that seems like a worthy trade.”