Although there was expectation that the current recession would bring a new wave of Appalachian Kentuckians back to their homeland hills, as had previous recessions, no great "return to the hills" (or even to other areas of the state) has materialized. Unemployment insurance claims by people formerly employed in other states have not increased in Appalachia or in Kentucky generally as the recession of the late 1970's and early 1980's has deepened. Transfers of children to public schools from out-of-state districts have increased only slightly, reaching only about 1970-71 levels. Former Appalachian Kentucky residents appear to be rather completely established in the communities to which they have migrated. Employment opportunities in the region and retirement preferences, not economic insecurity or inability to cope with urban life, appear to be the reasons for most Appalachian return migration. (Author/MH)