Coupling Coordination Analysis of Urban Vitality and the Ecological Environment: A Case Study from China

During the later stages of urbanization, the cultivation and maintenance of urban vitality have become a pivotal concern in urban development. However, research on urban vitality in Chinese cities remains at a nascent stage, particularly regarding its interconnectedness with the ecological environment. This study systematically examines the spatiotemporal evolution and driving factors of the urban vitality–ecological environment coupling coordination degree (UECCD) across Chinese cities from 2010 to 2021. The findings demonstrate three principal patterns: First, Chinese cities achieved substantial progress in UECCD development, with a notable contraction in the number of low-coordination cities. Second, significant regional disparities in UECCD are observed, with eastern regions demonstrating higher performance, while northeastern areas exhibit a comparatively low attainment. Third, the spatial distribution is marked by statistically significant high–high and low–low clusters. Spatial regression analyses identify economic development, urbanization, environmental regulation, digitization, and industrial structure as key positive determinants of the UECCD, whereas government intervention exhibits inhibitory effects. All factors demonstrate measurable spatial spillover effects, suggesting the necessity for coordinated regional governance strategies.