Abstract: Xinyang and its hinterland are unique in both Henan Province and China. Based on empirical observation, spatial symmetry analysis, and allometric scaling analysis, this paper is devoted to exploring the geographical location characteristics and economic development limitations of Xinyang city and region. The main findings are as below. First, Xinyang is located in the hub of China's urban network. The city is at the intersection point of the symmetrical axis of the East and the West and the axis of the North and the South of spatial distribution of Chinese cities. Second,agricultural production in Xinyang is a different category in Henan Province. The residual analysis of the allometric relation between wheat yield and total grain yield show that the six counties of Xinyang in the south of Huaihe River are all outliers. Through in-depth historical and geographical analysis, the main conclusions can be drawn as follows. (1) In history, because of the frequent wars, the city of Xinyang could not grow steadily. (2) Since 1949, because of the lack of mineral resources, the industry of Xinyang has not developed. (3) In the future, due to special traffic conditions and geographical location, Xinyang will be very likely to become a metropolis along with the prosperity of China's third industry. This work is helpful for geographers to learn about Xinyang as city and region systems from the viewpoints of development.