Description:
<jats:p>This article calculates the indices for high-quality economic development and water resource systems across 25 cities in the Yangtze River Delta from 2011 to 2021. Utilizing a multifaceted analytical framework comprising the CRITIC method, standard deviation ellipse, harmonious development coefficient, and coupling coordination coefficient, we investigate spatiotemporal evolutionary trends and overarching harmonious development states between the two systems. Results indicate: (1) Throughout the research period, mean values of high-quality economic development indices fluctuated within the range of 0.05 to 0.68, while water resource carrying capacity indices oscillated between 0.18 and 0.81. (2) The epicenter of high-quality economic development indices is situated in the periphery of Lake Tai, whereas the fulcrum of the water resource system indices is located in Huzhou City, both displaying a northwest-southeast orientation. (3) Coupling coordination development exhibits a propitious advancement trajectory, with certain locales attaining exemplary coordinated growth.</jats:p>