消费靠婆罗门县城，不靠县城婆罗门

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rise of consumption in county-level cities in China, challenging the narrative that this growth is primarily driven by a wealthy elite class referred to as "county Brahmins" [3][4][5]. Group 1: Definition and Characteristics of "County Brahmins" - "County Brahmins" are defined as individuals in a county who hold advantageous positions and resources, including local government officials and business owners [4]. - The article questions the impact of this elite group on overall county consumption growth, suggesting that their high spending alone cannot sustain the economic boom in these areas [5]. Group 2: Consumption Trends in County-Level Cities - Starbucks has expanded significantly into county markets, covering 857 out of nearly 3000 county-level cities, with an increase in transaction volume despite slightly lower average spending per customer [8]. - The bar industry in counties has also seen growth, with a 70% increase in the number of bars listed on Meituan in 2023, indicating a diversification of offerings beyond traditional beer to include cocktails and live music venues [14][15]. Group 3: Economic Indicators and Growth Factors - The average per capita consumption expenditure in a typical county has risen from 12,741 yuan in 2019 to 14,921 yuan in 2024, reflecting a significant increase in consumer spending [16]. - The article emphasizes that the economic growth in counties is not solely due to the affluent "Brahmins" but rather a broader increase in wealth across the entire county population, leading to a more robust consumer base [17]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Implications - The article posits that if the narrative shifts from "county Brahmins" to "Brahmin counties," it could indicate a more sustainable economic model, as these counties attract resources and labor from surrounding areas [23]. - The ongoing urbanization trend, with an expected increase of 120 million people moving to urban areas over the next 20 years, suggests that county cities will play a crucial role in accommodating this demographic shift and driving further consumption growth [21][22].