Upward social mobility in China: Do cities and neighbourhoods matter?

Abstract

As China's economic growth slows down, the declining hierarchical social system has the chance of revival. Little is known about the influence of local labour market on the chance of social mobility in the context of Chinese rapid urbanisation. Using large-scale nationally representative survey data and multilevel regressions, this study examines the relationship between labour market characteristics at the city and neighbourhood levels and individuals' perception of their current social status and chances of upward mobility. Results indicate that familiarity and mutual assistance among neighbours are positively associated with residents' perceived social status, and that economic growth rates and low unemployment rates are positively linked to the possibility of upward social mobility. Our findings stress the importance of economic prosperity in offering the chance of upward mobility and maintaining social stability in China.