Survey shows decline in quality of life for New Yorkers in all five boroughs, impacting public safety and schools.
Living in New York City can be both a dream and a nightmare, depending on where you reside. In the South Fordham area of the Bronx, residents are not too pleased with their neighborhood, while those in Park Slope, Brooklyn, are much happier. However, overall, New Yorkers are feeling a decline in the quality of life in the city.
A survey conducted by the Citizens Budget Commission in the second half of 2023, which included over 6,600 households, revealed that only half of New Yorkers plan to stay in the city. Dissatisfaction is prevalent across various aspects of city life, with only 39 percent content with public education, 37 percent happy with public safety, and 34 percent satisfied with neighborhood cleanliness. Less than a third rated the city’s quality of life as excellent or good, and less than a quarter were content with government services. Comparing these findings to previous studies in 2017 and 2008, it is evident that New Yorkers are feeling worse about the city in 2023.
Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, noted that the decline in satisfaction is significant, especially considering the context of the city’s recovery from the pandemic. In 2017, New York City was experiencing a robust recovery, whereas in 2023, it was still grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic.
Despite the overall dissatisfaction with the city’s quality of life, residents’ perspectives varied based on their neighborhoods, indicating a correlation with neighborhood wealth. The disparities in satisfaction levels highlight the complex nature of living in New York City.
The decline in quality of life in New York City is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed to retain residents and attract new ones. Improvements in public services, education, safety, and cleanliness are essential to enhance the overall well-being of city dwellers. As the city navigates through post-pandemic challenges, prioritizing the needs and concerns of its residents is crucial for revitalizing New York City’s appeal and vibrancy.
Source: The NY Times
