Finding Home: What Makes Somewhere a Great Place to Live?

Lifestyle

Most of us are likely already aware that finding the right place to live is more than just picking a spot on the map. It’s more about discovering a place that fits your lifestyle, budget, and needs, and a whole bunch of other things as well.

A recent Ipsos survey sheds light on what Americans prioritize when searching for a new place to call home. Participants ranked a list of sixteen different factors by importance, and an average importance score was calculated. Ipsos iSay reveals the top factors that make a location truly feel like “home.”

A doormat with the text Home Sweet Home
Cost of living is a top consideration for most people when choosing a place to call home sweet home.

Cost of Living: The Top Priority

For most people, the cost of living is the number one factor when choosing a place to settle down. With the highest average importance score of 4.6, it’s clear that stretching every dollar matters. Whether it’s the price of groceries, rent, or utilities, people are focused on finding a place where they can live comfortably without breaking the bank. After all, who doesn’t want to live well and still have a little left over for the fun stuff?

Housing Affordability

Right behind the cost of living is the ability to afford housing that meets your family’s needs, with a score of 5. This factor highlights the importance of finding a place that not only fits your budget but also accommodates your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a spacious home in the suburbs or a cozy apartment in the city, affordable housing is a must. The housing market may be tough, but finding that perfect spot is crucial for creating a stable and happy home life.

Crime Rates Matter

Feeling safe in your neighborhood is another top priority. Crime rates come in third, with a score of 6.4, showing that safety is a big deal for anyone looking for a place to live. From the peace of mind that comes from knowing your kids can play outside safely to the comfort of feeling secure in your own home, low crime rates are a key factor in making a location feel desirable to an average American.

Climate: More Than Just Weather

Climate is a significant factor when choosing a place to live, coming in fourth with a score of 6.7. Whether you’re drawn to the sunny beaches of California or the crisp, cool air of the Northeast, the local climate can greatly influence your day-to-day life. It may just be about finding a place where the weather aligns with how you want to live.
A real estate agent gives a couple a tour of a home
Housing affordability, crime rates, climate, and healthcare accessibility are also important factors in what makes somewhere a great place to live.

Healthcare Accessibility

Access to affordable healthcare is another important factor, ranking fifth with a score of 7.6. In the U.S., where healthcare costs can be high, knowing that you have easy access to quality medical care can bring peace of mind. From having affordable access to regular checkups to knowing there’s a good hospital nearby, healthcare is a crucial element in choosing where to live, especially for families and older adults.

Assessing Environmental Risks: Natural Disasters

Natural disasters like wildfires, earthquakes, and floods are also on the minds of Americans, ranking this factor seventh with a score of 8.1. Nobody wants to think about the possibility of a disaster, but it’s a reality that influences where people choose to live. Finding a place that’s relatively safe from these risks can make all the difference in long-term comfort and security.

Community and Lifestyle: Amenities That Matter

Amenities like cultural institutions, parks, and farmers markets also play a big role in where people choose to live, ranking eighth with a score of 8.4. These are the things that make life enjoyable and contribute to a sense of community. Whether you love spending weekends at local street festivals or enjoy the occasional visit to a museum, these amenities can make a place feel vibrant and engaging.

The Role of Racial and Ethnic Diversity

Racial and ethnic diversity may not be top of the list, but it’s still an important consideration for many, coming in twelfth with a score of 10. Living in a diverse community can add richness to everyday life, offering a variety of cultures, perspectives, and experiences. For those who value inclusivity, finding a place that reflects these values is key.

Political Climate: Does It Matter?

Finally, whether a place leans Republican or Democratic in its voting patterns comes in fifteenth, with a score of 10.9. For some, living in a community that shares their political views is important, while for others, it’s less of a concern. This factor can influence the overall feel of a community and can be a deciding factor for those with strong political beliefs.
A smiling mother and father sit on the floor with their young child who is playing with block toys
Additional preferences that Americans may prioritize when choosing where to live include risk of natural disasters, community amenities, racial and ethnic diversity, and political climate.

What Makes a Place Feel Like Home?

Choosing a place to live is a deeply personal decision that involves balancing practical needs with personal preferences. Whether it’s the cost of living, the safety of the neighborhood, or the local climate, everyone has their own priorities. By understanding what matters most, you can find a place that not only meets your needs but truly feels like home.

Have thoughts on what makes a place feel like home? Share your insights and opinions by participating in Ipsos iSay surveys. Your feedback can help shape the communities of tomorrow!

 

 

The Ipsos research shared in this article has been sourced from: https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/heres-what-makes-somewhere-best-place-live

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