Which defined characteristic applies to rural areas as per USDA guidelines?

The characteristic that aligns with USDA guidelines for defining rural areas is the concept of "open country not associated with an urban area." This description emphasizes that rural areas are typically defined by their lack of urban characteristics, such as high population density and extensive infrastructure commonly found in cities.

Rural regions are often characterized by their natural landscapes, agricultural use, and lower population concentrations, distinguishing them from urban centers. This definition helps the USDA target assistance programs, such as the Rural Housing Loan program, to areas that genuinely reflect rural living conditions, facilitating homeownership opportunities for residents in less populated environments.

In contrast, populations of less than 5,000 or those between 10,000 and 20,000 do not universally encompass the entire spectrum of areas considered rural according to USDA criteria. Additionally, urban areas with populations over 20,000 contradict the definition of rural. The focus on "open country" reinforces the idea of a setting that lacks urban development and aligns closely with the mission to support rural housing and community development.