The factors affecting rural residents’ willingness to burden-share costs of local infrastructure supply in developing countries: evidence from China

Rural infrastructure is fundamental to rural development in developing countries. Yet, rural governments endure heavier fiscal constraints than their urban counterparts. Thus, the capacity of rural residents to subsidize infrastructure supply is critical to facilitating provision. While this capability has increased, the willingness of rural inhabitants to absorb cost burdens remains low. However, the factors impacting willingness remains unexamined. This study addresses this deficiency by identifying influencing factors through the lens of “public goods theory.” A field survey of 266 rural Chinese residents is conducted. Results reveal that opinions on affordability are shaped by government policy, perceptions of equitable burden-sharing, and group behavior. Situational cognition plays an important intermediary role in affecting rural residents’ willingness. The “free-rider effect” is also confirmed as a factor. The findings of this study offer strategies for increasing the affordability of rural infrastructure investment in developing countries by raising the pay-for-use willingness of beneficiaries.