Growth Trajectory Divergence: A Comparative Analysis of New First-Tier and Second-Tier Cities Post-2015

Both new first-tier and second-tier cities demonstrated considerable growth during the study period. However, a notable divergence in growth trajectories emerged after 2015. While both categories continued on an upward trend, the growth rate observed in new first-tier cities was markedly stronger compared to previous years. This accelerated growth resulted in a widening gap between new first-tier and second-tier cities post-2015.