Abstract: Based on quantitative analysis employing a national-level survey data of small towns in 2016, the characteristics and influencing factors of the public service capacity of small towns in China were analyzed from the perspective of villagers' travel behavior. Results show that small towns are still the main service destinations providing various types of daily public services to hinterland villagers. It plays an important role in basic services such as agricultural production, daily supply of goods and primary medical services. As the level of goods or services rises, the public service capacity of small towns decreases, particularly in terms of inadequate higher-level medical services. Enhancing village-town bus services, shopping options, employment opportunities and the quality of healthcare services tend to strengthen the role of small towns in serving their villagers. More attention should be given to specialized services for low-income and disadvantaged groups with limited travel capacity.