Research Progress on the Impact of the Gig Economy on the Urban-Rural Gap

Abstract

In the context of the rapid development of the digital economy, the gig economy, as a novel form of employment, is profoundly influencing the structure and operational mechanisms of urban-rural labor markets. This paper, by reviewing relevant domestic and international studies and employing methods of literature review and comparative analysis, explores the relationship between the gig economy and the urban-rural gap. The study first reviews the evolutionary process of the gig economy concept and its primary features. Subsequently, from an empirical perspective, it summarizes the multifaceted impacts of the gig economy on urban-rural income disparities, employment structures, and regional coordinated development. Overall, most scholars regard the gig economy as a “springboard” for regional development and narrowing income gaps, while another group warns of the potential skill solidification trap it may bring. Existing research still shows discrepancies in explaining the impact mechanisms. Future studies can expand the dimensions of urban-rural gap analysis, improve the precision of causal identification, and strengthen comparative research across regions and internationally, thereby providing more robust support for refining the theoretical framework and policy system of the gig economy.