The imbalance in the development of rural areas, manifested in the outflow of population, declining living standards, insufficient infrastructure and weak support from the state, hinders the sustainable socio-economic growth of the regions. To determine effective mechanisms of state regulation that promote the sustainable development of rural areas, taking into account the social, economic and environmental components. The study is based on system and comparative analysis, statistical modeling, as well as an analysis of the regulatory framework in the field of rural policy. The main barriers to the sustainable development of rural areas are identified and areas for improving state regulation are proposed, including measures to stimulate the agricultural sector, improve social infrastructure and create sustainable employment. The results allow us to formulate a comprehensive approach to managing the development of rural regions. The findings and recommendations can be used by government agencies and local governments in the formation of rural development programs, as well as in the framework of designing sustainable territorial planning strategies at the regional level.