ANALISIS PERBANDINGAN JUMLAH PENDUDUK KABUPATEN/KOTA PROVINSI SUMATERA UTARA TERHADAP KETIMPANGAN PEMBANGUNAN EKONOMI DAERAH TAHUN 2024

Abstract

The primary objective of this research is to analyze the differences in population size among districts and cities in North Sumatra Province and examine how these variations contribute to regional economic development inequality in 2024. The main problem addressed in this study is the extent to which population distribution influences disparities in regional per capita income, which ultimately reflects spatial inequality across the province. This study employs a descriptive quantitative approach using secondary data obtained from the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS). The data include population figures and Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) per capita for 33 districts and cities. The analysis utilizes the Williamson Index to measure the level of inequality by comparing each region’s per capita income with the provincial average. The findings reveal that most districts and cities in North Sumatra fall within the low inequality category, with Williamson Index values ranging from 0.004 to 0.20. This indicates that income variations across the province are generally small. However, Medan City stands out with a Williamson Index value of 0.50, placing it in the medium inequality category due to its significantly higher per capita income. Meanwhile, regions such as Langkat, Pematang Siantar, Tanjung Balai, and Binjai show very low levels of inequality, demonstrating strong income distribution uniformity. In conclusion, economic inequality in North Sumatra is predominantly low, with Medan City being the primary contributor to regional disparities. These results highlight the importance of strengthening equitable development policies and optimizing the role of major growth centers to support surrounding areas.