How do we measure livability and what methods do we use to do it?
As livability has become a common goal of regional or community economic development, researchers have grappled with how to measure it. Part of the measurement challenge stems from inconsistent terminology and definitions. Absent a unifying theory, researchers adopt several terms that point to notions of quality of life (i.e., vitality, well-being, prosperity, livability, etc.), yet when used, it becomes clear they are measuring different things about a place. Yet reliable assessments of place-based livability that go beyond traditional measures of growth are necessary to create effective policies. In our research, we explore and develop different measures, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and identify “what” about livability we can learn from each.
