What is a typical impact of urbanization on rural populations?

The impact of urbanization on rural populations is often characterized by migration to cities, which leads to a population decline in rural areas. As urbanization occurs, individuals and families frequently leave rural communities in search of better economic opportunities, such as jobs and services that urban areas typically offer. This migration is driven by the allure of a higher standard of living, access to education, healthcare, and improved amenities in cities compared to rural settings.

As a consequence, rural areas may experience a decrease in their working-age population, which can affect local economies, reduce available labor for agricultural and other local industries, and lead to an aging demographic as younger individuals move to urban centers. This trend can also result in the depopulation of certain rural regions, contributing to further challenges, such as reduced investment in infrastructure and services in areas where population numbers are dwindling.

The other options reflect potential positive changes that might occur in rural areas but are not typical impacts of urbanization. For instance, increased economic activity generally moves toward urban centers, and while infrastructure may eventually improve in rural areas, it is often the result of different factors rather than a direct consequence of urbanization itself. The growth of agricultural jobs typically declines in the context of urbanization, as people flock