What is the general term for the areas located on the outskirts of a town or city?

The general term for the areas located on the outskirts of a town or city is suburbs. Suburbs typically refer to residential areas that are situated outside the main urban core but are still close enough to be considered part of the larger metropolitan area. They often feature lower population density compared to urban centers, and they provide a mix of housing, local shopping, schools, and parks, making them attractive for families and individuals seeking a quieter lifestyle while maintaining access to urban amenities.

Urban centers denotes the main business and cultural hubs where most economic activity occurs, which is not the same as the peripheral areas. Rural areas generally refer to the countryside or regions far removed from city life, characterized by farming and open spaces, which are distinct from the developing suburban regions. Metropolitan zones encompass a broader definition, including both urban centers and their surrounding suburbs, but the term specifically for the outskirts is indeed suburbs.