Examines the spatial preferences and decision mechanisms of rural migrants in Western China who intend to return to their hometowns. Using survey data and spatial econometric models focused on Sichuan Province, the study explores how personal attributes (age, education, income), institutional constraints (hukou barriers), and local development factors (public services, employment access) shape returnees’ spatial selection intentions. Results show that younger, more educated migrants exhibit a higher preference for county towns over villages due to better infrastructure and public services. Spatial heterogeneity is evident, with proximity to economic centers enhancing the appeal of certain locations. The chapter also highlights the structural mismatch between return intentions and actual resettlement opportunities, stressing the importance of aligning urban planning, employment distribution, and housing accessibility. By quantifying spatial patterns and behavioral tendencies, the chapter contributes to a more nuanced understanding of how return migrants choose their destination within multilevel county structures.

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Study on the Spatial Selection Intention of Return Migration Among Rural Migrant Population in Western China

  • Yaou Zhang,
  • Dongsheng Huang

摘要

Examines the spatial preferences and decision mechanisms of rural migrants in Western China who intend to return to their hometowns. Using survey data and spatial econometric models focused on Sichuan Province, the study explores how personal attributes (age, education, income), institutional constraints (hukou barriers), and local development factors (public services, employment access) shape returnees’ spatial selection intentions. Results show that younger, more educated migrants exhibit a higher preference for county towns over villages due to better infrastructure and public services. Spatial heterogeneity is evident, with proximity to economic centers enhancing the appeal of certain locations. The chapter also highlights the structural mismatch between return intentions and actual resettlement opportunities, stressing the importance of aligning urban planning, employment distribution, and housing accessibility. By quantifying spatial patterns and behavioral tendencies, the chapter contributes to a more nuanced understanding of how return migrants choose their destination within multilevel county structures.