Beyond the core: Shifting hubs and spatial patterns of migrant integration in China's city clusters

We investigate spatial variation in migrant integration across Chinese prefecture-level cities, focusing on the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei, Yangtze River Delta, and Pearl River Delta clusters. Based on survey data from 2011 to 2017, we assess integration across four dimensions—economic integration, social adaptation, cultural assimilation, and identity recognition—using principal component analysis to construct an evaluation system and calculate integration indices. We then examine the determinants of integration by estimating micro-level regressions of the PCA-derived score on individual characteristics. The results indicate significant differences in integration levels among cities within different provinces, with adjacent cities within the same province showing similar integration patterns. Notably, Beijing and Tianjin are no longer the focal points for migrant integration, while the YRD region has seen a clear northward shift in its integration center. In the PRD, there is a gradient decrease in integration from coastal to inland areas. Individual endowments, particularly higher education and longer residence, are robustly associated with greater integration. Our findings suggest that coastal regions should leverage their geographical advantages to promote development in less developed areas. Moreover, greater attention should be given to the settlement and development of migrants' children. Policies to promote migrant integration should combine interventions that enhance individual capacity with place-sensitive measures tailored to local conditions. This research provides valuable insights into the spatial distribution and changing dynamics of migrant integration, highlighting the need for tailored policies that address regional disparities and foster inclusive growth. • Spatial Integration Patterns : Internal migrant integration varies across China’s three major city clusters, with the Pearl River Delta exhibiting higher cultural and social integration than the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei and Yangtze River Delta regions. • Evolving Integration Centers: Integration hubs have gradually shifted from traditional core cities (e.g., Beijing and Shanghai) toward emerging regional cities, reflecting changing urban migration dynamics. • Individual Determinants and Policy Implications: Education, migration duration, and hukou status strongly shape integration outcomes. Policies supporting inclusive urban development and migrant children’s education are crucial for long-term settlement and integration.