internal migration

human migration

Also known as: residential mobility

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

Internal migration refers to the movement of people within a country's borders, distinct from international migration. This type of movement is a significant component of population change, alongside births and deaths. Historically, early urban migrations were often marked by high mortality rates due to disease and scarcity. However, the dominant trend in internal migration during the 20th century has been the movement from rural to urban areas, leading to rapid city growth, particularly in developing countries. This shift has reshaped populations and continues to be a major factor in demographic changes worldwide.12

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Canada
Demographic trends
…century, the notable feature of internal migration was the movement from eastern Canada to the Prairie Provinces. Although British Columbia has continued to gain from migration since the 1930s, much of this has been at the expense of the Prairie Provinces. Alberta gained population from throughout Canada during the oil…
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…century, the notable feature of internal migration was the movement from eastern Canada to the Prairie Provinces. Although British Columbia has continued to gain from migration since the 1930s, much of this has been at the expense of the Prairie Provinces. Alberta gained population from throughout Canada during the oil…
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Thailand
Demographic trends
Internal migration, notably the movement of people from the countryside to Bangkok, has produced major changes in the society. Bangkok has received a major share of all interregional migrants, most from the central and northeast regions. Although roughly one-third of Thailand’s total population is classified…
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Internal migration, notably the movement of people from the countryside to Bangkok, has produced major changes in the society. Bangkok has received a major share of all interregional migrants, most from the central and northeast regions. Although roughly one-third of Thailand’s total population is classified…
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Turkey
Demographic trends
…the postwar period was large-scale internal migration, from rural to urban areas both within each province and over longer distances. Areas attracting the most migrants were those with major urban agglomerations: the zone around the Sea of Marmara, the Aegean coast, the Adana Plain, and Ankara. Net migration losses occurred…
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…the postwar period was large-scale internal migration, from rural to urban areas both within each province and over longer distances. Areas attracting the most migrants were those with major urban agglomerations: the zone around the Sea of Marmara, the Aegean coast, the Adana Plain, and Ankara. Net migration losses occurred…
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