Determinants and Spatial Patterns of Counterurbanization in Times of Crisis: Evidence from Greece

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper stems from the need for a systematic study of the multiple components that determine the factors that attract residents of urban centers to rural areas in Greece. Based on Multicriteria Analysis (Explanatory Factor Analysis and Hierarchical Analysis) of the last censuses data (2001–2011), the main types (spatial patterns) of Greek municipalities that have potential prospects for settlement are assessed. At the same time, age profiles of people who tend to enter specific types of municipalities are explored, highlighting both the attractiveness factors of the rural areas and what the internal migrant is looking for at the settlement destination. Distinct spatial patterns of counterurbanization can be identified in Greece based on age, physical amenities, employment structures, offer of services, degree of isolation, and the cost of living in the recipient location. Finally, the results identify that spatial, demographic, social and economic inequalities are decisive in the interpretation of internal migration flows.