Intercity mobility pattern and settlement intention: evidence from China

Abstract

Abstract Floating population is an important group in the emerging urbanization process. This group promotes long-term settlement, which is a significant driving force increasing the urbanization level of countries. This study analyzed the changes in population mobility between Chinese cities and the willingness of the floating population to settle down. The analyses were based on data obtained from the China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS) in 2017, and the China Seventh Census 2020. Spatial econometric models were constructed for in-depth research. The result showed that: ① the floating population migrated mainly from the central region to the surrounding cities, and their long-term settlement intention presented a spatial pattern of "high in the east, low in the west, and local concentration." ②the long-term settlement intention significantly negatively affected the urban floating population. City economic level, public service capacity, and environmental quality significantly positively or negatively influence the number of the floating population. For promoting more floating population to become urban residents, management of the group should be strengthened, construction level of the urban economy, society, and ecology improved, and the willingness of the group to settle for an extended time encouraged.