Analysis of social and economic aspects of the system of settlement of the population of the Volgograd region

The article analyzes the socio-economic aspects of the settlement system of the Volgograd region, including population dynamics, features of the placement of settlements and their relationship with the economic development of the region. The key factors influencing settlement are considered: natural and climatic conditions, transport infrastructure, employment level and availability of social services. Particular attention is paid to the problems of depopulation of small towns and rural areas, as well as the prospects for their development in the context of regional policy. Based on statistical data and cartographic materials, trends are identified and recommendations are proposed for optimizing the settlement system for the sustainable development of the region.