Objective/Meaning  This study aimed to analyze the differences in livelihood vulnerability among different types of farming households in Yunnan’s border regions, and to explore the key factors affecting the livelihood vulnerability of farmers, so as to provide policy reference for improving the livelihood resilience of households in this area.

Methods/Procedures  Based on the questionnaire survey data of 589 farming households in 25 border counties (cities) of 8 border prefectures and cities in Yunnan Province, the evaluation index system for the livelihood vulnerability of farmers was constructed from the three dimensions of exposure level, sensitivity and adaptability, and then the livelihood vulnerability of different types of households was measured and comparatively analyzed.

Results/Conclusions  The study found that there were significant differences in the livelihood vulnerability of different types of farmers in the border areas of Yunnan Province. The households with greater diversification of livelihood strategies, higher educational attainment of the household head, and lower average age exhibited lower livelihood vulnerability, whereas those with opposite characteristics demonstrated higher vulnerability. Accordingly, the policy recommendations were put forward to reduce the vulnerability of farmers’ livelihoods and enhance their livelihood resilience by optimizing the livelihood structure of farmers, improving the level of human capital, and strengthening the ability of risk prevention and control.