Rural Gentrification and Its Driving Forces Based on Social Network Analysis: A Case Study of Yilan, Taiwan

Abstract

Rural gentrification is a significant issue in rural sustainable development that can impact many aspects of rural areas, such as the transformation of the rural class structure and changes in the rural housing structure. This study is based on the concept of rural gentrification and uses Yuanshan Township in Yilan, Taiwan, to examine whether the study area faces rural gentrification. This research conducts questionnaire surveys and social network analysis to understand the characteristics and implications of rural gentrification. The results identify age, education, and residence duration as differentiating factors between original residents and gentrifiers. Additionally, factors influencing rural gentrification encompass distinct living environments, natural landscapes, diversity, historical aspects, prices, and recreational facilities, contributing to the choice of purchasing farmhouses in Yuanshan Township.