By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania's rural counties are expected to lose 6% of their population by 2050, according to a report released by the Center for Rural Pennsylvania. The report projects that the state's overall population growth will also slow in the coming years, as the number of senior citizens increases but young people move out.
The report's findings raise a number of concerns for rural communities, including a shrinking workforce, declining farmland, and increased pressure on rural health care providers.
However, the report's authors say that policymakers and communities have time to adapt. They suggest several solutions, including an increased focus on technical education and incentives for businesses to locate in rural Pennsylvania
Key findings:
- Pennsylvania's rural population is expected to decline by 5.8% by 2050, while the urban population is expected to increase by 4.1%.
- Decreases in young people and, ultimately, the workforce will be most pronounced in rural areas.
- The exodus from rural communities could make it difficult to keep farms in production.
- The graying rural population could add stress to rural health care providers.
Potential solutions:
- Increased focus on technical education
- Incentives for businesses to locate in rural Pennsylvania
- Proactive steps to address the needs of rural communities
Photo Credit: minnesota-corn-growers-association
Categories: Pennsylvania, Rural Lifestyle