Abstract: The spatial mismatch between sustainable intensification and scaling of cultivated land use is a key factor leading to inefficient land resource allocation and constraining cultivated land protection goals. Using 86 counties in Hunan Province from 2009 to 2023 as study units, this paper analyzes the spatial mismatch characteristics and driving mechanisms of the two processes from a spatial mismatch perspective, employing the spatial gravity center model, gravity center coupling model, spatial mismatch index, and an optimal parameter geographical detector. The results indicate that: 1) The level of sustainable intensification shows a continuous and steady increase, while the level of scaling exhibits low growth and low volatility. A weak negative correlation exists between the two processes, and the positive driving effect of scaling on sustainable intensification has not yet emerged. 2) The gravity center of sustainable intensification shifts overall toward the northwest of Xinshao County, whereas that of scaling moves toward the northeast of Lianyuan City, displaying an alternating pattern of separation, convergence, and renewed separation. 3)The spatial mismatch index ranges from −0.815 to 0.876, with temporal evolution characterized by weakening differentiation, enhanced coordination, and localized imbalance. Spatially, inefficient areas converge toward balanced areas, while efficient areas agglomerate into dominant zones. County-level mismatch types exhibit clear heterogeneity and can be classified into four categories: stable, progressive, regressive, and jump types. 4) Agricultural financial expenditure, slope, rural irrigation level, and agricultural mechanization level are the core driving factors, and significant interactive enhancement effects exist among these factors, jointly shaping the formation and evolution of spatial mismatch. These findings provide a scientific basis for optimizing county-level cultivated land use systems and implementing differentiated management strategies in Hunan Province.