New Yorkers Express Dissatisfaction with Quality of Life in the City: Insights from the Citizens Budget Commission Survey
New Yorkers are expressing dissatisfaction with the quality of life in the city, according to a recent survey by the Citizens Budget Commission. The survey, which gathered responses from over 1,700 residents, revealed that ratings for public safety, cleanliness, and mass transit have declined compared to pre-pandemic times. Only a third of residents rated the quality of life in the five boroughs as good or excellent, a significant drop from 2017.
The survey results present a challenge for the next New York City mayor, as residents are particularly dissatisfied with crime and government services. The CBC's "Straight from New Yorkers 2025" poll highlights the need for improvements in various aspects of city life to maintain competitiveness and attract residents and businesses.
While there have been some positive developments since the pandemic, overall satisfaction levels remain below those of previous years. Bronx residents and Black and Hispanic New Yorkers expressed the highest levels of dissatisfaction, indicating a need for targeted improvements in these communities.
Despite the overall discontent, there are some bright spots in the survey findings. Ratings for neighborhood parks and ease of travel within the city have rebounded to 2017 levels, and neighborhood services like libraries, fire protection, and EMS continue to receive higher ratings in certain boroughs.
However, there is a concerning trend of wealthier New Yorkers giving lower grades to the quality of life in their neighborhoods compared to two years ago. The survey also revealed that 55% of New Yorkers plan to remain in the city over the next five years, with affordability, safety concerns, and living space being the top reasons for wanting to leave.
Residents are calling for the city administration to prioritize safety, housing, infrastructure, and cleanliness to address their concerns. The survey, conducted by data research firm Polco, provides valuable insights into the current state of New York City's quality of life and the areas that require attention for improvement.