Objective This study aims to reveal the spatiotemporal evolution patterns and evolution modes of rural settlements in the Pearl River Delta, thereby providing a scientific basis for advancing urban-rural integration and sustainable development in the region. Methods Using GIS spatial analysis and the GeoSOS-FLUS model, this study investigated the spatiotemporal evolution of rural settlements from 1990 to 2020 and predicted their evolution trends under multiple scenarios for 2030. Results (1) From 1990 to 2020, the kernel density of rural settlements was densely distributed around the core urban areas of the Pearl River Delta (Guangzhou, Foshan, Shenzhen, and Dongguan), while it was relatively sparse in the peripheral regions such as Zhaoqing and Huizhou. The peak value increased with fluctuations from 415.96/km² in 1990 to 767.72/km² in 2020. The overall scale contracted. The values of CA, NP, and MPS decreased, while the values of LSI and AI increased to varying degrees. Spatially, a pattern of central concentration and peripheral dispersion was observed, with persistent fragmentation in certain areas. (2) From 1990 to 2010, rural settlements were extensively encroached upon by urban land. After 2010, this trend reversed, with rural settlements expanding significantly and occupying urban land. The conversion of cultivated land and ecological land continued to face considerable pressure. (3) The area of rural settlements exhibited significant variations under different scenarios. Under the baseline scenario, the area was projected to increase by 8.55%, whereas under the other two scenarios, it was projected to decline by 19.69% and 6.61%, respectively. Conclusion Over the past 30 years, rural settlements in the Pearl River Delta have exhibited an evolution pattern characterized by the coexistence of decline and regeneration, with pronounced spatial heterogeneity. In the process of advancing urban-rural integration and sustainable development, it is necessary to implement region-specific and zoned optimization strategies and use the simulation results of the sustainable development scenario as an important reference for future decision-making.
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