Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify suicidal ideation in high school students in urban and rural areas. Methods: For this research two urban and two rural high schools in four cities were chosen. The participants were 713 students (373 in the urban area, 340 in the rural area). The survey was conducted from June 1 to July 31, 2012. Data were analyzed with chi-square test, t-test, ANOVA, and multiple regression using SPSS 18.0. Results: Results showed that 19.5% of respondents had suicidal ideation within the past 1 year. There were significant differences in suicidal ideation and developmental assets between the two areas. Multiple regression analysis revealed that support, school violence, gender, family abuse, constructive use of time, and positive identity were significant predictors and explained 26% of suicidal ideation for high school students in urban areas. On the other hand, in rural areas, family abuse, gender, positive identity, smoking and empowerment were significant predictors and explained 31% of suicidal ideation. Conclusion: The findings indicate that implementation of a suicide prevention program in which consideration is given to these factors, and taking into account differences between urban and rural students would be helpful in reducing suicidal ideation.