What is the phenomenon described as individuals moving away from urban areas to rural regions?

The phenomenon of individuals moving away from urban areas to rural regions is best described as "rural rebound." This term is used to characterize a trend where people leave cities, often in search of a better quality of life, lower cost of living, or a desire for more space and natural surroundings. Factors contributing to rural rebound can include dissatisfaction with urban living, increased remote work opportunities, and a growing trend towards valuing natural environments.

In contrast, urban expansion refers to the growth of urban areas outward into nearby regions, which does not capture the movement of individuals away from cities to rural areas. Suburban migration typically describes the movement of people from city centers to suburban locations, which are still associated with urban environments. Metropolitan shift generally refers to changes in the population distribution within or between metropolitan areas, but does not specifically indicate a move to rural settings. Therefore, "rural rebound" accurately reflects the specific movement from urban to rural areas.