Abstract: Based on the theory of water footprint, the water footprint and water resources carrying capacity were calculated to measure the real utilization of water resources in Shenyang for 2005-2012. The relationship between socioeconomic system and water resources system was contrasted and analyzed by the water footprint and water resources carrying capacity. On the basis of water footprint indicator, an evaluation index system of coupling coordinative degree was constructed, and the temporal difference of coupling degree and coupling coordinative degree in Shenyang analyzed by using the Capacitive Coupling Model. The results indicated that water footprint in Shenyang showed decreasing trend in 2005-2012. The annual average of water footprint was about 3.654×10 ⁹ m ³. The virtual water consumption of agriculture was the key component of city water footprint. The difference in population and dietary habits was the main reason for increase of the virtual water consumption. In terms of the basic indexes of water resources carrying capacity, the utilization of water resources in Shenyang was unsustainable. The population growth and economic development had caused the water resources shortage. The coordination result of coupling degree and coupling coordinative degree showed that the water resources carrying capacity system was in the state of antagonism, and the system of "water resource, society and economy" was in the state of mild disorder during the last years except 2005.