To explore the interaction mechanisms between population factors, economic systems and tackle regional development imbalances, this research adapts the entropy method and the coupling coordination degree model to analyze the coupling coordination characteristics of population - economic systems in the three major economic circles (Jiaodong, Provincial Capital, and Lunan) of Shandong Province. The research data encompasses 16 cities in Shandong Province from 2014 to 2023. The results suggest: 1) There are significant regional disparities in coordinated development. The Jiaodong Economic Circle exhibits the highest level of population - economic synergy and remains in the adjustment stage; 2) After administrative restructuring, the Provincial Capital Economic Circle has made phased progress, transitioning from an antagonistic phase to a coordinated one; 3) The Lunan Economic Circle has long been confronted with the contradiction of population - led development but economic lag. Its coupling coordination type has regressed to an antagonistic phase, and there is insufficient economic support for population growth. Based on these findings, this study proposes development paths for high - quality population - regional economic coupling by consolidating advantages, enhancing core effects, resolving structural contradictions, and establishing coordinated mechanisms, offering support for Shandong Province's objective of "leading the way and pioneering new horizons". 

Shuhua Liu, Lei Liu, Fang Wang, Yiqing Zhu. Research on the Path of Coordinated Development of Population and Regional Economy in Shandong Province. Academic Journal of Business & Management (2025), Vol. 7, Issue 10: 83-89. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJBM.2025.071013.

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