Spatial-temporal Variations of Living Standard Gap between Urban and Rural Residents in China and its Influencing Factors

The spatial-temporal changes of difference of Engel coefficient between urban and rural residents of all provinces,presented by 4 time sections in 1980-2010,depict spatial-temporal differences of living standard between Chinese urban areas and rural areas in province level.On the whole,from 1980 to 2010 Chinese urban and rural residents' Engel Coefficient difference experienced a process of the down-up-down,reflecting that the gaps between urban and rural residents' living standard in most provinces have been slightly narrowed,heavily enlarged and then significantly narrowed since reform and opening-up.In spatial difference aspects,the gap between urban and rural residents' living standard of all provinces shows a relatively significant spatial correlation,and hot spots areas and cold spots areas present significant spatial differences in different time period.In temporal difference aspects,the changes of the living standard gap between urban and rural residents of all provinces have great differences,which can be categorized into four classes according to changes of Engel coefficient difference between urban and rural residents.Spatial-temporal changes of the living standard gap between urban and rural residents in China are shaped by response of national macro strategies,macro-economic and political environment,regional urban-rural development strategy and policy,and geographical conditions.Urban-rural policies should adjust promptly according to practical situation of different urban and areas.