"Rural America covers 74 percent of the land surface of the country with over 46 million citizens in 2023. Yet, since it only comprises 14 percent of the U.S. population, there are larger distances between communities and households with implications for rural workers and their opportunities. The implications for how rural Americans contribute to the labor market are changing quickly, driven by factors as diverse as remote work policies, housing and childcare."
"Rural America is experiencing a Renaissance. The United States Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service reported that the most recent US Census reported that migration out of rural America reversed between 2010 and 2020, with growth in almost all county types regardless of degree of rurality. While older people and retirees contribute economically and socially to community vibrancy through contributions such as tax revenue, local expenditures, and community service, they are less likely to participate in the active labor force."
Rural America covers 74 percent of U.S. land and had over 46 million residents in 2023, representing 14 percent of the national population. Larger distances between communities affect access to jobs and services and shape workforce opportunities. Rural labor-market contributions are changing due to remote work policies, housing constraints, and childcare availability, while small businesses and entrepreneurs play a central role because major employers cluster in metro areas. Migration trends reversed from 2010 to 2020 with growth across most county types. Total rural employment rose 0.9 percent from 2022 to 2023, nearly returning to 2019 levels, alongside record low rural unemployment around 4 percent, although rural employment growth remains slower than urban growth.
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