A rural settlement is any settlement in the areas defined as rural by a governmental office, e.g., by the national census bureau. This may include even rural towns. ... Common types of rural settlements are villages, hamlets and farms. Traditionally, rural settlements were associated with agriculture....

Rural Settlement

Rural settlement refers to the pattern of human dwelling in rural areas, which are typically characterized by a low population density and the presence of agricultural activities. These settlements are distinct from urban areas in terms of their physical, social, and economic characteristics. While urban areas are densely populated and offer a wide range of services and amenities, rural settlements are more spread out and often rely heavily on agriculture and natural resources for their livelihoods.

Characteristics of Rural Settlements
Rural settlements exhibit several distinguishing characteristics that set them apart from urban areas. These include:

1. Low population density: Rural settlements are characterized by a low concentration of people per unit of land area. This is primarily due to the vast expanse of agricultural land and the limited availability of infrastructure and services.

2. Agricultural activities: Agriculture is the primary economic activity in rural settlements. These areas are often characterized by farmland, livestock rearing, and other agricultural practices that contribute to the local economy.

3. Close-knit communities: Rural settlements tend to have smaller populations, which often leads to a strong sense of community and close social ties among residents. This can foster a supportive and cohesive environment.

4. Scattered dwellings: Unlike urban areas where buildings are closely clustered, rural settlements often have scattered dwellings. Houses are spread out across the landscape, reflecting the need for larger plots of land for agricultural purposes.

5. Limited infrastructure: Compared to urban areas, rural settlements typically have limited access to basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and water supply. The provision of these amenities may be less developed or require more effort due to the dispersed nature of the population.

6. Natural surroundings: Rural settlements are often characterized by their proximity to natural landscapes and resources. This can include forests, rivers, lakes, and other natural features that contribute to the rural lifestyle and offer recreational opportunities.

Types of Rural Settlements
Rural settlements can be categorized into different types based on their spatial distribution and economic activities. Some common types include:

1. Clustered settlements: These settlements have a compact and centralized layout, with houses and buildings clustered together. This type of settlement often indicates a historical or cultural significance of the area.

2. Linear settlements: Linear settlements are characterized by houses and buildings arranged along a road, river, or other linear features. This type of settlement pattern is often found in areas with limited agricultural land or where transportation routes are important.

3. Dispersed settlements: Dispersed settlements consist of isolated houses or farmsteads spread across the landscape. This type of settlement is common in areas with large agricultural landholdings, where each household requires a significant amount of land for farming.

4. Nucleated settlements: Nucleated settlements have a central core or nucleus, with houses and buildings radiating outwards from a central point. This type of settlement often indicates a planned or organized layout.

In conclusion, rural settlements are characterized by their low population density, reliance on agriculture, close-knit communities, scattered dwellings, limited infrastructure, and proximity to natural surroundings. These settlements can take various forms, such as clustered, linear, dispersed, or nucleated, depending on the specific geographical