10.4 Appalachian return migration

Appalachian return migration is a complex phenomenon driven by economic opportunities, family ties, and a sense of belonging. People come back for jobs, to care for family, or to retire in familiar surroundings. This trend impacts local economies and communities.

Return migrants often bring education, skills, and resources that can benefit their hometowns. However, reintegration can be challenging. Communities are developing programs to attract and support returnees, recognizing their potential to revitalize Appalachia.

Reasons for return migration

• Return migration to Appalachia is driven by various factors that draw individuals back to their home region after living elsewhere
• These reasons often involve a combination of economic, social, and personal considerations that influence the decision to return

Economic opportunities in Appalachia

Top images from around the web for Economic opportunities in Appalachia

• 

  In S.W. Virginia, Trails Connect Region to Economic Growth View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Appalachian Sustainable Development - Abingdon, VA - LocalWiki View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Education, Automation and Migrant Workers: How One Appalachian GA County Became an ‘American Maker’ View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  In S.W. Virginia, Trails Connect Region to Economic Growth View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Appalachian Sustainable Development - Abingdon, VA - LocalWiki View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Economic opportunities in Appalachia

• 

  In S.W. Virginia, Trails Connect Region to Economic Growth View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Appalachian Sustainable Development - Abingdon, VA - LocalWiki View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Education, Automation and Migrant Workers: How One Appalachian GA County Became an ‘American Maker’ View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  In S.W. Virginia, Trails Connect Region to Economic Growth View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Appalachian Sustainable Development - Abingdon, VA - LocalWiki View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Improving job prospects in certain industries (tourism, healthcare, education) attract return migrants seeking employment
• Entrepreneurial opportunities arise as return migrants bring new skills, ideas, and capital to start businesses in their hometowns
• Lower cost of living compared to urban areas allows for a higher quality of life on a similar income
• Potential for remote work arrangements enables return migrants to maintain their careers while living in Appalachia

Family ties and obligations

• Strong family connections and a desire to be closer to parents, siblings, or extended family members motivate return migration
• Caring for aging parents or relatives may necessitate a return to Appalachia
• Raising children near family support systems and in a familiar environment is appealing to many return migrants
• Family businesses or property inheritances can anchor individuals to their Appalachian roots

Sense of place and belonging

• Emotional attachment to the landscapes, communities, and cultural heritage of Appalachia draws people back
• Nostalgia for the simpler, more connected way of life in Appalachian towns and rural areas
• Desire to contribute to the betterment of one's hometown or region instills a sense of purpose
• Longing for the close-knit social networks and sense of belonging found in Appalachian communities

Retirement and quality of life

• Appalachian return migration is common among retirees seeking a slower pace of life and a lower cost of living
• Natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a more relaxed lifestyle attract return migrants
• Proximity to family, friends, and familiar surroundings provides a support system for aging individuals
• Retirement in Appalachia allows for a reconnection with one's roots and a chance to give back to the community

Characteristics of return migrants

• Return migrants to Appalachia are a diverse group, but they often share some common characteristics that distinguish them from non-migrants or out-migrants
• Understanding these characteristics can help in developing targeted policies and programs to support return migration

Age and life stage

• Return migration occurs across various age groups, but is most common among young adults (25-35) and retirees (60+)
• Young adults often return after completing education or gaining work experience elsewhere, seeking to start families or careers in Appalachia
• Mid-career professionals may return to take advantage of job opportunities or to be closer to family
• Retirees frequently choose to return to Appalachia for a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle near family and friends

Education and skills

• Return migrants tend to have higher levels of education compared to non-migrants in Appalachia
• Many return with college degrees, professional certifications, or specialized skills acquired outside the region
• These educational and skill advantages can contribute to economic development and knowledge transfer in Appalachian communities
• Some return migrants may need additional training or support to adapt their skills to the local job market

Financial resources and assets

• Return migrants often have accumulated financial resources from their time living and working outside Appalachia
• These assets can include savings, investments, or proceeds from the sale of property in other areas
• Financial stability enables return migrants to purchase homes, start businesses, or invest in their communities
• However, not all return migrants have significant financial resources, and some may require assistance in transitioning back to Appalachia

Impact of return migration on Appalachia

• Return migration has the potential to bring significant benefits to Appalachian communities, but it also presents challenges that must be addressed
• The impact of return migration can be seen in various aspects of community life, from demographics to economic development and social revitalization

Population growth and demographics

• Return migration contributes to population stability or growth in Appalachian communities that have experienced long-term decline
• Returning young adults and families can help balance the age structure and maintain vital services like schools and healthcare
• Increased diversity among return migrants, including racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, can enrich Appalachian communities
• Population growth from return migration may strain local infrastructure and resources if not properly managed

Economic development and entrepreneurship

• Return migrants bring new skills, ideas, and connections that can stimulate economic development in Appalachia
• Entrepreneurial activities by return migrants can create jobs, diversify local economies, and attract additional investment
• Knowledge transfer from return migrants can help modernize traditional industries and foster innovation
• Successful return migrant entrepreneurs can serve as role models and mentors for aspiring business owners in the community

Social and cultural revitalization

• Return migrants often bring a renewed appreciation for Appalachian culture and heritage, helping to preserve and celebrate local traditions
• Involvement of return migrants in community organizations, events, and initiatives can strengthen social networks and civic engagement
• New perspectives and experiences brought by return migrants can challenge stagnant ideas and inspire positive change
• Increased diversity among return migrants can lead to more inclusive and vibrant communities

Challenges of reintegration

• Return migrants may face difficulties readjusting to life in Appalachia after living elsewhere, including limited job opportunities or cultural differences
• Housing shortages or affordability issues can make it difficult for return migrants to find suitable living arrangements
• Reintegrating into established social networks and finding a sense of belonging can be challenging for some return migrants
• Lack of support services or resources tailored to the needs of return migrants can hinder successful reintegration

Policies and programs for return migrants

• Recognizing the potential benefits of return migration, policymakers and community leaders in Appalachia are developing initiatives to attract and support return migrants
• These policies and programs aim to create an environment that encourages return migration and helps returnees thrive in their communities

Incentives for return migration

• Financial incentives, such as tax breaks, student loan forgiveness, or relocation grants, can encourage return migration to Appalachia
• Partnerships between local governments, businesses, and educational institutions to create targeted job opportunities for return migrants
• Marketing campaigns highlighting the benefits of living and working in Appalachia, such as quality of life, natural beauty, and community spirit
• Initiatives to connect return migrants with affordable housing options, including rent-to-own programs or home renovation grants

Support services and resources

• One-stop resource centers providing information and assistance to return migrants on topics like housing, employment, education, and healthcare
• Mentoring programs that pair return migrants with established community members to help navigate the challenges of reintegration
• Professional development workshops and networking events tailored to the needs and interests of return migrants
• Mental health and counseling services to support return migrants in adjusting to life back in Appalachia

Community engagement and partnerships

• Involving return migrants in community decision-making processes and leadership roles to ensure their perspectives are represented
• Collaborations between local organizations, businesses, and return migrants to develop initiatives that benefit the entire community
• Intergenerational programs that connect return migrants with youth and older adults to foster community cohesion and knowledge sharing
• Partnerships with diaspora organizations and networks to maintain connections with Appalachians living elsewhere and encourage future return migration

Future trends in Appalachian return migration

• As Appalachia continues to evolve in response to broader economic, social, and technological changes, return migration patterns are likely to shift as well
• Anticipating and adapting to these future trends will be crucial for communities seeking to attract and retain return migrants

Changing economic landscape

• Diversification of Appalachian economies beyond traditional industries like coal and manufacturing may create new opportunities for return migrants
• Growth in sectors such as tourism, healthcare, and renewable energy could align with the skills and interests of younger return migrants
• Increasing demand for remote work options may allow more return migrants to bring their jobs with them to Appalachia
• Need for policies that support sustainable economic development and ensure the benefits of growth are shared equitably

Generational differences and preferences

• Younger generations of return migrants (Millennials and Gen Z) may have different priorities and expectations compared to older returnees
• Emphasis on work-life balance, community engagement, and environmental sustainability may shape the decisions of future return migrants
• Desire for diverse, inclusive, and culturally vibrant communities could influence where younger return migrants choose to settle
• Adapting policies and programs to meet the needs and preferences of different generations of return migrants

Role of technology and remote work

• Advancements in technology and the growing acceptance of remote work could make it easier for return migrants to live in Appalachia while maintaining careers elsewhere
• Investments in broadband infrastructure and digital literacy programs can help Appalachian communities attract and support remote workers
• Potential for technology to enable new forms of entrepreneurship and innovation in rural areas
• Need for policies that ensure equitable access to technology and the benefits of the digital economy

Sustainability and long-term impact

• Ensuring that return migration contributes to the long-term sustainability and resilience of Appalachian communities
• Balancing the benefits of return migration with the potential strain on local resources and infrastructure
• Developing policies that encourage responsible land use, environmental stewardship, and conservation of Appalachia's natural heritage
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of return migration over time to inform future policies and programs that support thriving, sustainable communities in Appalachia