Clustering of regions taking into account the level of innovative and economic development

The article presents the author's approach to the classification of regions, based on the use of cluster analysis and official data from state statistics bodies. The purpose of the study is to identify groups of Russian regions, taking into account the dynamics of mesoeconomic indicators and the principle of proximity to the focal subject of the Russian Federation (center). Particular attention is paid to the description of the attributive characteristics of regions belonging to different clusters. The role of the classification of regions in the formation of the regional policy of the Russian state at the present stage of its development is revealed.