Abstract:
Like rural residents in other places, people in rural Oregon have expressed concern about
the demographic shifts occurring in their communities. Principally they are concerned
about youth leaving and not returning. This analysis uses recent Census Bureau data to
describe, in detail, the demographic changes occurring in rural Oregon. Particular
attention is paid to migration’s role in driving these changes. Interviews of community
leaders in rural Oregon reveal how rural Oregon is responding to, and thinking about,
these demographic changes. Results indicate that there is no comprehensive public
policy in place to address the concern about demographic change. Possible policy
strategies to address the demographic changes in rural Oregon are identified.
