This study probed into the migration intentions of rural youths in West Iran
and sought to identify the variables influencing these intentions. The study
found that about one-third of the youths had a high to very high intention of
migrating to urban areas. The stepwise multiple regression revealed four
factors to be statistically significant determinants of migration intentions,
namely, attitudes to agriculture, family structure, parental relations, and
number of friends and family members in the urban areas. Findings suggest
that supporting inter-generational relationships and agricultural activities,
and enhancing the economic and socio-cultural aspects of rural areas can
encourage young people to remain in the rural areas.