Objective This study systematically characterizes the spatial correlation network of new-type urbanization and examines its impact on territorial spatial utilization efficiency, aiming to provide theoretical support and references for improving new-type urbanization policies and promoting the efficient utilization of territorial space. Methods Based on panel data from 21 prefecture-level cities in Guangdong Province from 2005 to 2023, social network analysis was used to characterize the spatial correlation network of new-type urbanization. A super-efficiency model (SBM) was applied to measure territorial spatial utilization efficiency, and a panel data-based fixed effects model was constructed to empirically validate the impact of the spatial correlation network of new-type urbanization on territorial spatial utilization efficiency. Results 1) The spatial correlation network of new-type urbanization in Guangdong Province formed a core-periphery stratification structure, with the Pearl River Delta as the core area and the remaining regions as peripheral areas. 2) The network relevance score remained at 1 throughout the study period, and no island nodes were observed. Network density first increased and then decreased, but overall remained at a relatively low level. Network hierarchy showed a fluctuating declining trend, indicating a transition from a hierarchical structure to a flatter one. Network efficiency first increased and then gradually decreased, while network stability improved. 3) The degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality of Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan, and Zhuhai remained at relatively high levels. 4) The spatial correlation network of new-type urbanization helped improve territorial spatial utilization efficiency. However, this enhancement effect was more pronounced in the Pearl River Delta region, plain areas, and in the dimension of urban spatial utilization efficiency. Conclusion It is necessary to internalize network-based thinking to guide the transformation of new-type urbanization and to encourage cities to formulate differentiated development strategies based on their own resource endowments and functional positions within the spatial correlation network of new-type urbanization, thereby strengthening the role of the network in promoting territorial space efficient utilization.
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