A procedure is suggested for estimating migration distances from data on the proportion of migrants crossing regional boundaries. The method makes use of Buffon's needle, a problem in geometrical probability from the eighteenth century that was originally used as an empirical means of estimating Π. The procedure is described for various scenarios that differ in their assumptions about region shape, the spatial distribution of population, and the distribution of migration distances. An application to migration distances in the United States is given, and additional attention is given to the estimation of intraregional migration distances. © 1990, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.

Buffon's needle geometrical probability Migration distance

Research Methodology Americas population demography Population Dynamics statistics Developed Countries mathematical model United States spatial distribution North America geography Western Hemisphere theoretical model Models, Theoretical Article migration Geographic Factors developed country Demographic Factors research Estimation Technics Emigration and Immigration Distance Northern America Health Services Accessibility health care delivery