A NUTS 3 level socio-economic analysis using multivariate methods

This study applies factor analysis and cluster analysis to explore county-level differences, with emphasis on economic performance, employment, industrial activity, demographic trends, education, and tourism potential. The focus is on the Romanian NUTS-3 regions (named ‘counties’). The results highlight Cluj and Sibiu as the most advanced counties in economic terms, while Harghita and Covasna rank among the less developed regions. The cluster analysis groups the counties into five distinct categories, with Harghita, Covasna, and Mureș classified as “moderately progressing” areas. Based on these insights, the study outlines recommendations to promote economic diversification, enhance the quality of education, develop tourism infrastructure, and strengthen regional connectivity – key measures that could reduce territorial disparities and support a more balanced spatial development in Romania.