Adapting to the Urban Exodus from COVID-19: New Publication on the Experience of Rural Ontario Communities

During the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of Canadians packed up city life and moved to rural communities. But what did that sudden shift really mean on the ground? A new article in Plan Canada, “Reflecting on the Urban Exodus: Rural Planning for City Expats,” explores how rural municipalities across Ontario experienced — and responded to — this change.

Written by Sara Epp, Christopher Fullerton, Natasha Gaudio Harrison, and Ryan Gibson, the article draws on surveys, interviews, and focus groups with planners and municipal staff. It highlights real-world impacts such as pressure on housing, infrastructure, childcare, and local services, as well as tensions between new and long-time residents. The authors also share practical lessons on how better data, flexible planning, and preparedness can help communities manage sudden population shifts.

Whether you’re a planner, policymaker, or simply interested in how rural places are evolving, this article offers timely insights in clear, grounded terms.