Dynamic Characteristics and Evolution Analysis of China’s Rural Population Migration Networks from 2000 to 2020 Based on the Perspective of Regional Differences

Abstract

The large-scale cross-regional migration of rural migrants is a significant feature of the current social system in China, affecting the sustainability of social and economic development. Using China National Census data and socio-economic panel data, we applied the complex network analysis method to construct a rural population migration network and analyze its characteristics, evolution, and mechanisms of network formation and changes. The research findings are as follows: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the rural population migration network developed rapidly, the network scope expanded continuously, regional participation gradually grew, and the inter-regional rural population migration relationship became increasingly complex. The overall network gradually evolved from an early segmented and loose structure to a monolithic and solid structure. (2) The in-degree centralization of the network remained higher than the out-degree centralization. The inbound migration pattern of the rural population was more compact than the outbound migration pattern, and the internal network displayed aggregated inbound population migration and dispersed outbound population migration flow characteristics. (3) The network had a distinctive “core–edge” character, with the core areas and the main migration flows in the network demonstrating high similarity across different periods. The overall network gradually developed around the core areas where the rural population moved in and out. (4) The influence mechanism between the later migration network and the geographical differences was more complex than in the early period. Differences in the regional development levels and geographical factors continued to influence the mobility choices of the rural population, whereas differences in income levels, cost of living, employment opportunities, and education funding only affected the rural migration network during specific periods. Based on these findings, reasonable migration policies should be formulated to ensure sustainable urban and rural development.