The aim of the present study was to identify and prioritize the factors influencing the migration of rural middle-class populations to urban areas in Goleijan Village, located in the Central District of Tonekabon.
Method: This research employed a descriptive-survey design of the correlational type. The statistical sample consisted of 366 residents aged 20–50 from this rural area, selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire. The factors affecting the migration of rural middle-class groups to the city were categorized into four main themes: sociocultural factors, economic factors, administrative and service-related factors, and natural and environmental factors. The fuzzy AHP method was used to rank the factors, and Expert Choice software was applied for data analysis and prioritization of factors and indicators.
Findings: The results indicate a significant relationship between migration and the following variables: achievement motivations in the city, interactions with relatives and acquaintances, the influence of social networks, job shortages, low income, lack of investment and entrepreneurial opportunities, inadequate educational facilities, insufficient healthcare and medical services, poor recreational and leisure services, unsuitable cold and dry climate, and shortages