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Assessing the differences in distance of interstate migration, 1980.
Sociological Focus
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Interstate migration distance is influenced by location characteristics, not individual traits. This suggests migration distance reflects psychic costs and information, aligning with a cost-benefit perspective.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Economics
- Geography
Background:
- Understanding factors influencing migration distance is crucial for regional planning and economic development.
- Previous research has explored individual and location-based determinants of migration patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the determinants of interstate migration distance in the United States between 1975-1980.
- To investigate the relationship between migrant characteristics, location attributes, and migration distances.
Main Methods:
- Utilized individual records from the 1980 Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) files.
- Sample restricted to nonblack, noninstitutionalized heads of households aged 25-64 in 1980.
Main Results:
- Outmigration is primarily shaped by individual characteristics.
- Migration distance is significantly influenced by characteristics of the destination locations.
- Findings support the role of psychic costs and information in migration distance.
Conclusions:
- Migration distance is best explained by location-specific factors and a cost-benefit analysis.
- The study provides evidence for the importance of information and perceived costs in migration decisions.