The Interaction Mechanism Between Urban Scale Hierarchy and Urban Networks in China: An Analysis Based on A Spatial Simultaneous Equation Model

Owing to intensified globalization and informatization, the structures of the urban scale hierarchy and urban networks between cities have become increasingly intertwined, resulting in different spatial effects. Therefore, this paper analyzes the spatial interaction between urban scale hierarchy and urban networks in China from 2019 to 2023, drawing on Baidu migration data and employing a spatial simultaneous equation model. The results reveal a significant positive spatial correlation between cities with higher hierarchy and those with greater network centrality. Within a static framework, we identify a positive interaction between urban scale hierarchy and urban network centrality, while their spatial cross-effects manifest as negative neighborhood interactions based on geographical distance and positive cross-scale interactions shaped by network connections. Within a dynamic framework, changes in urban scale hierarchy and urban networks are mutually reinforcing, thereby widening disparities within the urban hierarchy. Furthermore, an increase in a city’s network centrality had a dampening effect on the population growth of neighboring cities and network-connected cities. This study enhances understanding of the spatial organisation of urban systems and offers insights for coordinated regional development.