Anni Xia

School of Economics, Anhui University of Finance and Economics

Abstract：

Based on sample data related to the digital economy in Anhui Province from 2012 to 2023, this paper selects indicators representing the construction of digital economy infrastructure, the level of digital economy penetration, and the development level of digital industries in Anhui Province. Using a multiple linear regression model based on the ordinary least squares method, this study examines the impact of the digital economy on the income gap between urban and rural residents. The research findings indicate a positive correlation between the gap in broadband access users between urban and rural areas, income from information technology services, and the income gap between urban and rural residents. In other words, the income gap between urban and rural residents is positively correlated with the gap in digital development levels between urban and rural areas. The larger the income gap between urban and rural residents, the wider this gap becomes. Finally, the paper proposes some policy recommendations to narrow the income gap between urban and rural areas.

Key Words：

income gap between urban and rural residents; digital economy digital divide