Abstract: This study takes 224 typical Dai ethnic settlements in Xinping County, located in the Yuanjiang dry-hot valley region, as the research subject. By employing methods such as nearest neighbor analysis, kernel density analysis, and the geographical detector model, the study systematically reveals the spatial distribution patterns and differentiation mechanisms of these settlements. The main findings are as follows: (1) Dai settlements in Xinping County exhibit a significant agglomerative spatial distribution, with clear regional differences and an overall spatial structure characterized by“one major area, multiple cores, and linear distribution.” (2) Geographical detector analysis indicates that population size, slope, and elevation are the dominant factors influencing the spatial differentiation of Dai settlements, with their explanatory power significantly higher than that of other variables. (3) A comprehensive analysis of the spatial patterns and influencing factors shows that the distribution characteristics of Dai settlements result from the long-term interactive coupling of multiple geographical elements, including natural environment, historical culture, and socio-economic conditions. Among these, the natural environment serves as the foundational determinant of spatial differentiation, while socio-historical and cultural factors act as intrinsic driving forces, jointly shaping the spatial pattern of Dai settlements.