Abstract:This study takes 297 cities at prefecture level or above in China (including 4 municipalities directly under the central government, 15 sub provincial cities, and 278 prefecture level cities) as the analysis objects, analyzes and reviews the overall situation, highlights, hotspots, and prominent problems of their economic operation in 2023, and looks forward to the economic development trend of cities in 2024. In general, since 2023, China’s urban economy has rebounded and improved, with frequent highlights and hotspots in various fields. Nevertheless, issues such as a significant decline in exports, frequent real estate risks, increased local debt risks, and insufficient release of consumer demand cannot be ignored. Looking ahead to the first half of 2024, the policy effects of macroeconomic regulation in areas such as real estate, investment, consumption, and openness will be concentrated and released. Cities should promote high-quality urban economic development by highlighting problem-oriented approach, accurately grasping the development priorities for 2024, and formulating targeted policy measures.