Objective This study aims to systematically characterize the overall spatial patterns， regional differentiation， and dynamic evolution of territorial space utilization efficiency within China′s urban agglomerations， and to reveal the role of enhanced efficiency in optimizing resource allocation and spatial structure within these agglomerations. Methods 14 urban agglomerations in China were selected as the research objects. The super-efficiency SBM model and Gini coefficient decomposition were employed to reveal the regional differences and sources of territorial space utilization efficiency. Additionally， kernel density estimation and Markov transition probability matrix were applied to analyze the evolution trends from 2010 to 2022. Results 1） The region as a whole showed a temporal pattern of urban space utilization efficiency > ecological space utilization efficiency > agricultural space utilization efficiency. During the study period， the average efficiency values were 0.645， 0.326， and 0.163， respectively. 2） The overall disparity in the territorial space utilization efficiency among urban agglomerations showed a trend of first decreasing and then increasing， with the Gini coefficient rising from 0.131 in 2010 to 0.145. Moreover， the differences between urban agglomerations were the primary source of the overall disparity. 3） The level of comprehensive territorial space utilization efficiency demonstrated strong spatial spillover effects. Furthermore， the state transition of efficiency levels within each urban agglomeration was more likely driven by the positive effect of high-level neighboring areas. Conclusion Adopting a development model of coordinated and mutual assistance within and outside the region can break the constraints on internal resource allocation and factor circulation. Meanwhile， actively leveraging the spillover effects of high-level urban agglomerations can promote the optimization and enhancement of the territorial space layout of urban agglomerations.