Nonmetropolitan areas have greater unmet health needs and fewer health resources than metropolitan areas. This report compares health needs and resources in both areas, and shows that nonmetro areas' lower incomes, larger aged populations, hazardous occupations, and lower educational levels contribute to poorer health care conditions. A positive development has been the Federal Government's recognition of problems and its programs designed to meet these special needs. It will be important to recognize rural residents' health needs under any national health insurance program.