Bollman, Ray D.; Marshall, Jeff; Rothwell, Neil; Tremblay, Juno
Abstract
Migration is a concern for rural and small town (RST) areas of Canada as rural development is essentially a demographic phenomenon. To date, there has been little analysis of migration patterns and their affect on RST areas. To better understand the contribution that movers have on the RST population, this paper documents internal migration into and out of RST Canada. Specifically, the characteristics of the moving population that are 15 years of age and over, with a focus on their levels of human capital, are examined. In addition, characteristics of migrating youth are discussed as youth can be seen as an indicator of the state of rural areas and are a key factor in rural development. The understanding of the patterns of migration may give rise to solutions for the retention of human capital in rural and small town areas and the promotion of rural development.
