Rural area refers mainly to the fields and large cultivation spaces where agricultural economic activities are carried out primarily. Urban area is one where large cities are established. Generally, rural areas have a smaller population compared to those that live in urban areas and their geographic territory is usually more extensive.
Difference between Rural and Urban Areas
Urban areas are characterized by being industrialized, while in rural areas nature predominates. Before seeing what is the difference between rural and urban areas. Let’s check first what rural and urban areas are?
What is Rural Area?
The rural area refers to the large fields and towns that depend on economic activities in the primary sector.
These areas are characterized by having a smaller number of inhabitants compared to those who live in urban areas, but at the same time their geographic space is usually more extensive.
Rural areas are often very diverse and the criteria for differentiating them from urban areas often vary depending on the country.
Normally to call an area rural, parameters such as the main economic activities present, the availability of services and the number of inhabitants are used, a number that varies depending on the country.
The economic activities that characterize rural areas are usually agricultural, that is, agriculture and livestock. Fishing, mining and logging are also common.
The tourism rural or ecotourism also has developed exponentially in many areas that are attractive to foreigners.
The environment is characterized by a wide nature with natural and organic resources at its disposal. Because of this, many rural areas are currently protected to conserve the environment.
More developed science and technology often take longer to reach rural areas or are often not available.
What is an Urban Area?
Urban areas are those where cities, large towns or metropolises are located.
The population density of urban areas is higher compared to that of rural areas; generally a minimum of 2,500 inhabitants is considered to qualify as an urban area in countries like Mexico. Likewise, in this population there is greater diversity.
Urban areas are characterized by being industrialized and presenting all kinds of infrastructures. Likewise, the spaces available for the large number of people are smaller.
Another fundamental factor in urban areas is the development of a diverse economy, focused on the secondary and tertiary sectors, the primary sector being practically non-existent.
Industrialization, mass production and the development of services of all kinds favor the population, generating a high rate of employment.
Commerce, science and technology are also highly developed, representing a fundamental factor that distinguishes urban areas.
These characteristics make public services in urban areas better prepared compared to rural areas.
Some disadvantages that can occur in urban areas are high prices and high pollution caused by industrialization.
