Which of the following best defines urbanization?

Urbanization is best defined as the population shift from rural to urban areas. This phenomenon occurs when individuals and families move from countryside settings, which are often characterized by agricultural lifestyles and lower population densities, to cities and towns where opportunities for employment, education, and services are more concentrated. As people migrate to urban areas in search of better jobs, improved living standards, and access to amenities, cities expand both in terms of geographical space and population density.

This process can lead to various social, economic, and environmental changes, such as the growth of infrastructure and increased demand for housing. Urbanization also has implications for the way societies operate, contributing to the rise of urban culture, governance, and the challenges related to urban planning and sustainability.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of urbanization. The decline of urban regions and the creation of protected rural spaces do not reflect the movement of people from rural to urban areas, nor does the increase in suburban developments solely represent urbanization, as suburban areas often encompass characteristics of both urban and rural life.