Abstract: This study aims to explore the spatiotemporal evolution and coupling coordination mechanisms of the production-living-ecological (PLE) functions in the Shandong section of the Yellow River basin. First, using land use data from 1980, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020, this study developed a PLE space evaluation system. Then, by integrating methods such as hot spot analysis and coupling coordination degree models, this study analyzed the spatiotemporal evolution and coupling coordination characteristics of the PLE space in the Shandong section. Finally, driving factors influencing the coupling coordination degree of the PLE functions were explored using an optimal parameters-based geographical detector. The results indicate that within the study periods, the production-ecological space was extensively distributed, representing the highest proportion. Meanwhile, the living-production space expanded constantly, while the ecological space in the Yellow River delta shrank remarkably. The coupling coordination degree of the PLE functions across the Shandong section exhibited a slowly upward trend. However, the coupling relationships were dominated by mild and nearly incoordination. In 2020, the coupling state changed primarily in Jinan City, improving from mild incoordination to nearly incoordination in Changqing District and leaping to moderate coordination in Huaiyin and Tianqiao districts. From 2005 to 2020, the tertiary industry exerted an increasing impact on the coupling coordination degree, while the interactions among the three major industries produced significantly enhanced driving effects on the degree. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen ecosystem conservation in the Shandong section of the Yellow River basin, especially in the Yellow River delta, comprehensively optimize the regional industrial structure, and accelerate industrial transformation and upgrading. These efforts will improve the overall coupling coordination degree of the PLE functions in the Shandong section, contributing to its green, high-quality, and sustainable development.