Context and Relevance. Subjective socioeconomic status (SSS) plays a significant role in shaping mental health outcomes. In Northeastern China, the SSS of college students has become increasingly diverse and complex. However, empirical research exploring the relationship between SSS and life satisfaction among college students is notably scarce. Investigating this relationship is vital for understanding the psychosocial dynamics of college students in this region and can inform policy development aimed at improving their overall life satisfaction. Objective.This study focuses on a group of college students in Northeastern China and aims to examine the relationship between subjective socioeconomic status and life satisfaction. It seeks to fill the existing gap in regional research and provide insights into the mechanisms through which SSS influences college students' life satisfaction. Hypothesis. A significant positive correlation exists between college students' subjective socioeconomic status and their life satisfaction. Specifically, students with higher subjective socioeconomic status experience greater life satisfaction, and family income has a mediating role in the relationship between SSS and life satisfaction. Methods and materials: A total of 1,256 valid questionnaires were collected from full-time undergraduate students across three universities in Northeastern China via convenience sampling. The study employed a cross-sectional design. Subjective socioeconomic status was assessed using the MacArthur Subjective Social Status Scale, while life satisfaction was measured using the Life Satisfaction Scale. Results.Only children reported significantly higher life satisfaction compared to non-only children. Family income and father's education level were positive predictors of life satisfaction. Conclusions. Family income and parental education significantly influence college students' life satisfaction.