Ni Pengfei, Li Qingbin and Li Chao:Spatial Heterogeneity of Urban Happiness and its Influencing Factors in China

Abstract:Based on the data of prefecture-level and above cities, this paper examines the spatial distribution of well-being by applying the spatial econometrics. The results of the study suggest thatChina’s urban well-being has a typical “club” characteristic and noticeable regional difference. As a relatively long-term and stable indicator, well-being is affected by variables of early conditions, urban per capita savings and public service, whereas inflexible indicators like urban per capita GDP, infrastructure and urban characteristic has little influence on the spatial heterogeneity of well-being. Attention should also be paid to the regional effect of the above affecting factors. In accelerating the construction of “happy cities”, it is particularly important to establish a “tilted and flat” urban system.

Key Words: Urban well-being, spatial heterogeneity, affecting factors, skew and flat

JEL Classifications：R13