Empirical least squares regression models for employment, in- and out-migration, and income distribution in the Northern Great Plains region of the United States

Abstract

This research effort is aimed at determining empirical least squares regression models for employment, in- and out-migration, and income distribution, Secondary data is used exclusively; The observations are 181 non-metro counties in the Northern Great Plains Region of the United States. The statistical results show that all four models are directly linked to variations in the economic bases of counties. To some extent, this allows the models to be used concurrently in determining impacts. It was hypothesized and shown that the multiplier effect for employment varies with industry, scale of operation of the various industries, and location in economic space. This conslusion along with the successful inclusion of migration and income distribution suggests that the approach taken in this study is a possible alternative to strandard aggregate economic base and input-output studies.