Methods and Criteria for Assessing the Standard of Living of the Population of Surkhandarya Region

This study aims to develop a comprehensive methodological framework for assessing the standard of living of the population in Surkhandarya region based on a composite index approach integrating economic and social indicators.Methodology: The research applies economic–statistical and econometric methods to construct a multidimensional Living Standards Index (LSI). Six core components were selected: income per capita, unemployment rate, life expectancy, education level, healthcare accessibility, and housing and infrastructure conditions. Indicators were normalized relative to benchmark values and aggregated using a weighted model.Results: The calculated Living Standards Index for Surkhandarya region equals 0.630, indicating a moderate (developing) level of living standards. The strongest performance was observed in housing and infrastructure (0.840) and education (0.750), while income level (0.448) remains the weakest component. Income inequality and unemployment, particularly among youth and women, significantly affect overall welfare performance.Novelty: The study proposes a region-specific composite index model integrating innovative activity indicators into the assessment of living standards. Unlike traditional single-indicator approaches, this framework provides a multifactor evaluation combining economic and social dimensions. Practical Implications: The findings provide evidence-based policy recommendations for regional authorities, including income diversification, labor market expansion, healthcare strengthening, and infrastructure modernization to ensure sustainable socio-economic development.