Exurbanized

The past tense and past participle of 'exurbanize', meaning to have undergone or been subjected to the process of exurbanization. Exurbanization describes the migration of people from urban areas and suburbs to rural areas or smaller towns located beyond the existing suburban periphery, driven by factors such as seeking a lower cost of living, access to more green space, a slower pace of life, and/or lower population density. This process often involves the development of new housing and infrastructure in previously undeveloped areas, leading to changes in land use, environmental impacts, and potentially altering community dynamics. It reflects the shift from traditional urban centers, suburban growth, and rural communities, creating distinctive spaces and characteristics.

Exurbanized meaning with examples

• The rolling hills of the countryside had become increasingly exurbanized over the past two decades, as city dwellers sought respite from the urban sprawl. New housing developments with sprawling lawns and cul-de-sacs steadily replaced farmlands and forests. The once-isolated villages saw increased traffic, and the population changed rapidly and affected the original cultures of these towns.
• The small town, once a quiet haven, was now significantly exurbanized. Wealthier families from the city invested in expansive estates. The existing infrastructure struggled to cope with the influx. Local businesses adapted to cater to new residents with new needs, thus creating tension between the old and the new, changing the area's character for those who had long called it home.
• Once farmland, the landscape of the valley had become increasingly exurbanized with the introduction of large-scale estates and the construction of luxury homes, all within gated communities. The increasing affluence of the residents led to rising property taxes. The changes prompted concerns about the environment, the preservation of historical landmarks, and the loss of the community's rural roots.
• As the population boom continued, and the cities became less livable, the area had become more exurbanized. Commuting, once a minor inconvenience, became a major part of the daily schedule. Rural services like schools, hospitals, and shops became increasingly strained and struggled to cope with the growth and changing demographics.
• The once pristine wilderness had been sadly exurbanized, transformed into a sprawling network of residential developments and shopping centers. This environmental consequence spurred many to reflect on the importance of balance between growth and conservation, and this changed community dynamics, raising questions about the need for sustainable urban development policies.