Which term best describes the process by which people move from rural to urban areas?

The process by which people move from rural to urban areas is best described by the term urbanization. Urbanization refers to the increasing population shift from rural regions, often characterized by agricultural lifestyles, to urban areas, which are typically associated with industrial jobs, services, and higher population density. This movement is driven by various factors, including the search for better employment opportunities, access to services like education and healthcare, and the allure of a more modern lifestyle.

Suburbanization refers to the growth of areas on the periphery of cities, often as people move from urban centers to more suburban locations. Counterurbanization is the trend where individuals move from urban areas back to rural ones, often seeking a quieter lifestyle. Globalization encompasses broader economic and cultural exchanges across countries, but it is not specifically tied to the rural-to-urban migration process. Thus, urbanization accurately captures the essence of the migration from rural to urban settings.