Shifting Urbanization Trends in China

China's largest cities have historically been hubs of opportunity, attracting a diverse population seeking better jobs and quality of life. However, there is a noticeable shift as younger generations and recent graduates begin to favor smaller cities due to lower living costs and improved quality of life. These smaller cities offer similar infrastructure and amenities without the demanding work hours typical in first-tier cities, making them increasingly appealing. This change also aligns with government efforts to encourage migration to these second and third-tier cities, signaling a potential realignment of economic growth within the country.