City Services Satisfaction Survey 2012 City Services Satisfaction Survey | Page 11

Overall Rating and Perceptions of Arlington
In terms of quality of life, about three-quarters of Arlington residents (74%) rate the city
moderately high as a place to live. Compared to last year, overall rating of Arlington
offering a “good” or “excellent” quality of life has declined significantly from 82%* (likely
a function of methodology change, as noted in the Caution On Year-To-Year
Comparisons).
Most-cited reasons for living in Arlington are Arlington’s location (53%), convenience
(42%), and affordable housing and property taxes (36%). Citizens generally perceive
the City of Arlington positively. Specifically, the city is perceived very highly for its
cultural diversity and various housing options (for each, 83% “strongly” or “somewhat
agree”). However, the city is rated relatively low as a place to retire (43%) and a place
to operate a business (46%).
Consistently, most Arlington residents feel that the city is headed in the right direction
(73%); say they would recommend Arlington to others (76%); and say they intend to
continue residing in Arlington (70%). Despite all being rated moderately high, these
ratings have declined significantly, compared to last year* (likely a function of
methodology change, as noted in the Caution On Year-To-Year Comparisons).
Decision Analyst, Inc.
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