How does the coordinated development of population urbanization and land urbanization affect residents' living standards? Empirical evidence from China

An imbalance in the coordinated development of population urbanization and land urbanization (CDPULU) significantly impacts residents' living standards (RSLS); however, studies on this matter remain scarce. This study addresses the gap by analyzing panel data from 284 prefecture-level cities in China to examine the spatiotemporal patterns of CDPULU and RSLS, alongside exploring the mechanisms through which CDPULU affects RSLS. Results indicate a 10.647 % increase in CDPULU and a 39.844 % increase in RSLS from 2011 to 2019, with concurrent decreases in their Gini coefficients by 6.699 % and 2.502 %, respectively. The regression results of the spatial Durbin panel model reveals that while CDPULU has a promoting effect on RSLS, negative spatial spillover effects also exist, with regression coefficients of 0.535 and 0.360 for direct and indirect effects, respectively. The coefficient of the total effects of CDPULU on RSLS varies across regions, being highest in Eastern China (0.934) and lowest in Central China (0.083). These findings offer new insights into the dynamics of urbanization in China, providing valuable guidance for decision-makers.