In urban planning, counterurbanization is often associated with what trend?

Counterurbanization refers to the demographic trend in which people move from urban areas to rural areas, resulting in a shift towards rural living. This phenomenon often occurs when individuals or families seek a quieter environment, more space, or a lifestyle connected to nature, leading them to leave densely populated cities for smaller towns or countryside settings.

The trend of counterurbanization signifies a reversal of urbanization, where instead of an increasing population in cities, there is a notable out-migration toward the less densely populated areas. This can be influenced by various factors, including the desire for better quality of life, remote work opportunities, and changes in housing preferences.

In contrast, increased urban population is indicative of urbanization rather than counterurbanization. Similarly, the decline of urban services is typically a consequence of population loss in urban areas rather than a defining characteristic of the counterurbanization trend. Expansion of city boundaries generally relates to the growth of urban areas, not the movement of people away from them. Thus, the correct association with counterurbanization is indeed the shift towards rural living.