Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

The term that describes the movement of people typically seeking better economic opportunities is rural-to-urban migration. This phenomenon occurs when individuals or families move from rural areas, which often have limited economic prospects, to urban areas that provide a wider range of job options and better access to services.

Urban areas typically offer more industries, social services, and educational opportunities, making them attractive destinations for those looking to improve their living conditions and economic status. The search for employment and the promise of a higher quality of life are significant driving forces behind this migration pattern.

In contrast, urbanization refers to the overall increase in the population of urban areas, which can result from various factors, including rural-to-urban migration but is not exclusively about individuals seeking economic opportunities. Suburbanization describes the movement of people from urban areas to suburban regions, often seeking a different lifestyle or housing options rather than directly following economic opportunities. Counterurbanization involves the movement of people away from urban centers to rural areas, which contrasts with the focus on economic advancement typically associated with rural-to-urban migration.