The relationship between a state's metro and nonmetro economic performance is a key consideration in determining whether a special rural development policy is appropriate for that state. This report compares the economic performance of metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas in 49 states, 1979-86. On average, metropolitan areas enjoyed higher levels of growth in population, employment, real earnings, property income, and real per capita income. Both metro and nonmetro areas experienced declines in real earnings per worker, with larger percentage declines in nonmetro areas. Performance varied widely across individual states. Accordingly, each state was categorized as "strong" or "weak" (based on whether or not its real earnings growth for 1979-86 exceeded the national aggregate rate of 8.1%), and as "balanced" or "unbalanced" (based on whether the differential of its metro versus nonmetro earnings growth was more or less than 7 percentage points). Further consideration of special rural development programs appears particularly warranted in the 31 states with unbalanced economies. Especially strong candidates are the 11 states with unbalanced economies but strong metropolitan growth. Tables provide 1979 and 1986 data for each state on: population; employment; unemployment rates; earnings; earnings per worker; dividends, interest, and rent; transfer payments; and per capita income. An appendix briefly relates 1987 earnings data. The information and analysis is potentially useful for policymakers. (SV)