Rural Population Demographics

Where Is Rural America, and What Does It Look Like?

The following statistics are from “Where Is Rural America, and What Does It Look Like?” Published February 2017. “Rural America” is a deceptively simple term for a remarkably diverse collection of places.

It includes nearly 72 percent of the land area of the United States and 46 million people. Using a widely used USDA definition in which “rural areas” include everything that is outside a metropolitan area, these 1,976 counties were home to 46.2 million residents in 2015.

Metropolitan areas include counties with a city of 50,000 residents or more, together with adjacent counties — mostly suburban areas that are economically tied to the urban core.

The Diversity of Rural America

Rural America is not monolithic. It includes farming communities in the Midwest, mining towns in Appalachia, ranching communities in the West, fishing villages on the coasts, and small towns in every region of the country.

Each of these communities has its own culture, its own challenges, and its own strengths. What works in one rural community may not work in another. That is why rural ministry requires contextual understanding — you cannot apply a one-size-fits-all approach.

The Rural Church Institute at Wheaton College Billy Graham Center has documented this diversity extensively. Their research shows that rural churches face different challenges depending on their region, their size, and their community context.

The Common Threads

Despite the diversity, there are common threads that run through rural America:

Declining population. Many rural areas are losing population as young people leave and older residents pass away.

Limited resources. Rural areas often have fewer resources than urban areas — fewer hospitals, fewer schools, fewer businesses, fewer social services.

Strong community bonds. Despite the challenges, rural communities often have strong social bonds. People know each other. They help each other. And they look out for each other.

Deep faith. Rural America is often more religious than urban America. Churches are central to community life. And faith is a source of strength and resilience.

What This Means for Ministry

Understanding rural demographics is essential for effective ministry. You cannot minister effectively to a community you do not understand. Take time to learn about your community — its history, its culture, its challenges, and its strengths.

And remember: every rural community is different. What works in one place may not work in another. Be flexible. Be contextual. And be faithful.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the definition of rural America?

The USDA defines rural areas as everything outside a metropolitan area. This includes 1,976 counties and 46 million people.

Is rural America growing or shrinking?

Many rural areas are shrinking, but some are growing. The trend varies by region and by community.

How do I learn about my specific community?

Start by talking to people. Attend community events. Read local newspapers. And use resources like the USDA Economic Research Service and the Rural Health Information Hub.

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Brent Lacy has spent over 25 years in small-town and rural ministry. He has learned that understanding your community is the first step to ministering effectively.