Internal migration is the movement of people from one place to another within a country. In the United Kingdom, internal migration has been a significant component of population change over the past few decades. This article will explore the trends and patterns of internal migration in the UK through a case study.
Background
The UK is home to over 66 million people, and the population has been growing steadily over the past few decades. This growth has been driven by both natural increase (births minus deaths) and net migration (immigration minus emigration). Internal migration, however, has also played a crucial role in shaping the population of the UK.
Internal migration can occur for various reasons, such as employment, education, family, and lifestyle. It can be divided into two types: inter-regional migration (between regions) and intra-regional migration (within regions). In this case study, we will focus on inter-regional migration.
The Case Study: London and the South East
London and the South East have been the most significant destination regions for internal migrants in the UK for many years. In 2019, 359,000 people moved to London from other regions, while 259,000 left London for other regions, resulting in a net inflow of 100,000 people.
The reasons for the high level of migration to London and the South East are varied. London is the UK’s capital and largest city, with a thriving economy, job opportunities, and excellent transport links. The South East is also a prosperous region, with many large towns and cities, including Brighton, Oxford, and Southampton. These areas offer a high quality of life and access to world-class amenities and services.
However, the influx of people to London and the South East has also led to some problems, such as high house prices, congestion, and pressure on public services. Many people have also been priced out of the housing market, leading to a rise in commuting times and a divide between those who can afford to live in the city and those who cannot.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Internal Migration
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on internal migration in the UK. The first national lockdown in March 2020 led to a sharp decrease in the number of people moving between regions. However, as restrictions eased, there was a surge in demand for housing in rural areas and smaller towns, as people sought more space and a change of scenery.
According to data from the property website Rightmove, searches for properties in rural areas increased by 126% in June 2020 compared to the previous year. Similarly, searches for properties in coastal towns increased by 115%.
This trend has continued in 2021, with many people choosing to work remotely and move away from cities. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of having a comfortable home and access to green spaces, and many people are willing to trade the convenience of city living for a better quality of life.
Conclusion
Internal migration is a significant component of population change in the UK. London and the South East have been the most popular destination regions for many years, but the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in demand for housing in rural areas and smaller towns. As we look towards the future, it will be interesting to see how internal migration patterns continue to evolve and shape the population of the UK.