Michigan Counties Transition from Rural to Metro Status

By Andi Anderson

A new report from USDA's Economic Research Service (ERS) provides insights into the evolving landscape of rural America, revealing a resurgence in population growth and economic recovery. The report, titled "Rural America at a Glance," outlines key trends shaping the nation's rural communities.

A notable finding is the reversal of long-standing population declines in rural areas. After a decade of overall loss, the rural population is growing again, with an increase of approximately a quarter percent from 2020 to 2022. This growth is driven by a shift in migration patterns, with more people moving from urban to rural areas.

This trend is reflected in the recent reclassification of several counties from rural to metropolitan status. In Michigan, Ionia, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelenau, and Kalkaska counties have transitioned to metro status, indicating their increasing urbanization.

The report also highlights positive developments in rural poverty rates. The number of nonmetropolitan counties experiencing persistent poverty has declined by 9.7% compared to a decade ago. This progress is attributed to a combination of factors, including economic growth and increased access to social programs.

While poverty rates have improved, the report notes that housing insecurity remains a challenge for many rural households. More than half of extremely low-income non-metro renter households experience housing insecurity.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on rural employment, with job losses of 10% in 2020. However, the report indicates a strong recovery, with nonmetropolitan household employment rebounding in 2021 and continuing to grow throughout 2022 and 2023. By the first quarter of 2023, total rural employment had nearly fully recovered, returning to 99% of prepandemic employment levels.

The report attributes the rebound in rural employment to several factors, including increased demand for goods and services produced in rural areas, the rise of remote work, and government stimulus programs.

The growth of clean energy jobs is also emerging as a positive trend in rural America. More than 243,000 jobs in rural counties were in clean energy in 2021, exceeding the number of jobs in coal, petroleum, and natural gas fuels.

The report paints a picture of a rural America that is adapting and evolving, with signs of population growth, economic recovery, and a growing clean energy sector. While challenges remain, particularly in addressing housing insecurity and poverty, these trends suggest a promising outlook for the future of rural communities.
 

Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick