The impact of air pollution on the settlement intention of the floating population——Empirical evidence from China

This paper utilizes 2017 dynamic monitoring data of China’s floating population and matches it with air pollution data from 287 prefecture-level cities to construct a Probit model. The study aims to investigate the effects and pathways of air pollution on the settlement intention of floating populations. The research findings are as follows: Firstly, air pollution significantly affects the settlement intention of floating populations, with an increase in air pollution concentration leading to a notable decrease in their intent to reside. Secondly, the impact of air pollution on the settlement intention of floating populations varies based on their personal characteristics and regional features. Those with longer years of residence, higher education levels, and better air quality in their hometowns tend to be more sensitive to air pollution. Thirdly, air pollution reduces the settlement intention of floating populations by affecting their physical health. Further research finds that better healthcare services provided by the government can enhance the willingness of migrant populations to settle in areas with environmental pollution. This study enriches the relevant research on environmental factors’ influence on the settlement intention of floating populations, and it provides insights for the government to formulate talent attraction policies from an environmental governance perspective.