Objective Using Jiaxing City as a case study and taking the Yangtze River Delta regional integration strategy as research context, the rail transit development models for node cities within the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration is examined.

Method The Jiaxing locational characteristics, current urban development status, and the foundation for multi-level rail transit development are analyzed. Drawing on relevant cases from the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area and the Yangtze River Delta region, the development models for rail transit in urban agglomeration node cities are explored. A preliminary concept for Jaixing rail transit development model is proposed.

Result & Conclusion  Located at the geometric center of Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Ningbo, Jiaxing exhibits locational characteristics of 'strong transfer function and weak agglomeration.' The central urban area has a low primacy index, short-distance trips account for a high proportion, and the existing traffic structure—dominated by private motorization—hinders the advantages of rail transit from being fully realized. Jiaxing should prioritize the development of suburban railways to serve medium- to long-distance passenger demand of 30-50 km, link key nodes within the jurisdiction, and connect with the Shanghai–Hangzhou intercity rail network, thereby forming a multi-level transportation system of 'city railway + backbone public transit.' It is recommended to promote coordination between rail transit and urban functions through strategies such as cross-regional integrated planning, direct and through services along major passenger corridors, and differentiated technical standards. These measures can help address the 'weakening due to siphoning' dilemma faced by node cities in the Yangtze River Delta and enhance regional connectivity efficiency.