This study constructs an indicator system for China's "zero-waste cities" construction. It uses the entropy weight method to measure the system's level across 30 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) from 2011 to 2022. The coupling coordination model is employed to analyze the development coordination between subsystems, while the gravity model and social network analysis explore the spatial network characteristics of the system. Lastly, the quadratic assignment procedure (QAP) is used to identify the driving factors behind the system. The results show that: the coupling correlation and coordination between subsystems have improved over time, with regional coordination levels in the order of: Class Ⅰ > Class Ⅱ > Class Ⅲ > Class Ⅳ > Class Ⅴ. The spatial network connectivity of each region in China's "zero waste city" construction system shows an upward trend, with increasing network density and more strong connection networks. However, the overall network remains at a low level and is unevenly developed. The network connection level of Class Ⅰ regions is higher than others, with network efficiency tending towards stability. Economic development, urbanization, innovation capacity, and industrial structure coordination significantly influence the spatial network. Economic development has a greater impact on Class Ⅰ and Class Ⅴ regions, whereas urbanization affects Class Ⅱ and Class Ⅲ regions more significantly.