The rural economy in a new century

This article discusses the economic status of rural America. It focuses on the current status of rural areas and the incipient forces that will change life in rural areas through the early twenty-first century. During the twe ntieth century, technology eroded the employment base of most rural communi ties, depressed incomes, and made out-migration the only recourse for milli ons. The fortunes of rural communities are diverging. Some are continuing t o face economic decline. Others are trying to cope with rapid growth in pop ulation, land use conflicts, and growing demand for public services. The tw enty-first century could instead favor rural communities. Economic and demo graphic trends are reducing the cost of distance and increasing the value o f space. Technology is reducing the need for proximate labor Demand for rur al community lifestyle is growing. With effective rural policy, rural commu nities could contribute much more to the national economy.