Rural areas are diverse and heterogeneous, varying according to their geography and history. Thirty percent of the population lives in municipalities classified as “rural towns,” “rural areas with scattered settlements,” and “rural areas with highly scattered settlements.” But rurality is not merely a matter of population density. A study by the National Agency for Territorial Cohesion (ANCT) provides a more accurate snapshot of the demographic, economic, and social realities of rural areas across France, which is useful for informing public policy decisions. It also highlights the central role of local infrastructure and resources in addressing transition challenges, particularly those related to the environment.