What is the difference between the terms urbanization and ruralization?

Urbanization

• A process of people moving from rural areas to urban areas.
• A rise in the population of cities and towns.
• A shift in the economic and social landscape of a region.

Ruralization

• A process of people moving from urban areas to rural areas.
• A decline in the population of cities and towns.
• A shift in the economic and social landscape of a region.

Urbanization and ruralization are two sides of the same coin. They are interconnected and interdependent. As urban areas grow, they often attract people from rural areas, leading to further urbanization. Conversely, rural areas can experience depopulation as people move away in search of job opportunities and other amenities.