This analysis of Federal impacts on the urban residential sector focuses on: (1) the influence of Federal programs and policies on intermetropolitan population movements (migration from the North to the sunbelt); and (2) program and policy influences on the process of suburbanization (the flight of the affluent from central cities). Considered are Federal actions that impinge directly upon residential location decisions, as well as those which act indirectly, having their initial effects on local fiscal and economic development. Recent trends in population growth among urban areas and in population suburbanization are described. Numerous factors influencing migration and suburbanization are discussed, including local labor market conditions, environmental factors, changes in accessibility and differences in amenities and public services between cities and suburbs, and Federal policies regarding transportation programs, highway construction, housing subsidies, discrimination, and local level government. An extensive bibliography is provided. (Author/EB)