Understanding counter-urbanization and re-urbanization in pandemic: Insights from People's migration behavior in China

• Published in: Habitat international Vol. 150; p. 103116
• Main Authors: Zhang, Dapeng, Yiwen, Zhang, Fu, Guangshuai
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.08.2024
• Subjects: China urbanization; Counter-urbanization; COVID-19 pandemic; Migration behavior; Public health crisis; Rural-urban dynamics; Migration behavior; COVID-19 pandemic; Counter-urbanization; Rural-urban dynamics; Public health crisis; China urbanization
• ISSN: 0197-3975; 1873-5428
• DOI: 10.1016/j.habitatint.2024.103116

This study investigates the drivers behind migration from larger to smaller cities and from urban to rural areas (counter-urbanization), along with the reverse migration (re-urbanization) during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing a retrospective survey of 1000 respondents across China from January 2020 to April 2023, we explored how pandemic-related factors influenced migration behaviors. A theoretical framework integrating push-pull, risk perception, and human capital theories was developed. Boxplot visualization was used to examine the motivations for counter-urbanization during the pandemic, and regression models were applied to identify the complex factors driving both counter-urbanization and re-urbanization. Key findings reveal that pandemic-induced insecurity and perceptions of the strictness and effectiveness of virus prevention measures significantly influenced migration decisions. Notably, land ownership in rural hometowns served as a crucial "safety net" for rural populations, affecting their migration decisions. This study differentiates between migration types: urban-to-rural versus larger-to-smaller cities, and compares the driving factors behind both processes. By focusing on both counter-urbanization and re-urbanization, this research highlights the interplay of psychological, policy, and economic factors that shape migration patterns in the context of public health crises. •Analyzed pandemic-driven counter-urbanization and re-urbanization in China.•Utilized a nation-wide retrospective survey with 1000 respondents.•Integrated push-pull, risk perception, and human capital theories.•Found pandemic-related insecurity and policy perceptions key to migration.•Highlighted land property's significance for rural migrants' decisions.