Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Urbanization refers to the process of a population shifting from rural areas to urban areas, resulting in the growth and expansion of cities.
Related terms
Rural-Urban Migration: Rural-urban migration refers to the movement of people from rural areas to urban areas in search of better economic opportunities or improved quality of life.
Megacity: A megacity is an urban area with a population exceeding 10 million people. These cities are characterized by high population density and significant economic activity.
Slums: Slums are densely populated informal settlements typically found in urban areas, characterized by inadequate housing, lack of basic services, and poor living conditions.