[Objective] The ecological performance of the Yellow River basin in Shanxi Province was evaluated to provide theoretical support and a decision-making basis for sustainable development of the region. [Methods] Using the Yellow River basin in Shanxi Province as the research area, a theoretical framework was constructed based on the “pressure-state-response” model, and the spatial-temporal interaction of ecological performance from 2010 to 2020 was evaluated using InVEST, SFA, and the coupling coordination degree. According to the current situation and spatial distribution characteristics of the ecological performance level, ecological performance optimization zoning was conducted from bottom to top. [Results] ① From 2010 to 2020, the ecosystem services index of the Yellow River basin in Shanxi Province increased by 2.27%, and the spatial distribution was “north-south, high and low,” forming a double-core pattern mainly in the Lüliang Mountains and Taiyue-Zhongtiao Mountains. ② From 2010 to 2020, the ecological efficiency of the Yellow River basin in Shanxi Province increased by 43.48%, and the spatial distribution was “lower in the center and higher in the periphery.” ③ From 2010 to 2020, the ecological performance of the Yellow River basin in Shanxi Province increased by 35.29%, with a spatial distribution of “lower in the center and higher in the periphery.” ④ Based on the characteristics of spatial differentiation of ecological performance, the study area was divided into ecological performance remodeling, ecological performance improvement, ecological performance buffer, ecological performance enhancement, and ecological performance conservation areas, and the targeted ecological performance improvement paths were proposed. [Conclusion] The ecological performance of the Yellow River basin in Shanxi Province is generally poor and is still in the primary stage of high-quality development. In future, it will be necessary to explore new paths and support points suitable for a high degree of coordination between ecological protection and economic development in the region.