
We also gave great thought and consideration to the data sources and methodology used in scoring. We conducted a thorough vetting process to determine which metrics and policies best capture the broad nature of livability. What is Livable? Community Preferences of Older Adults The intention is to reflect a wide range of preferences for people living at all stages of life.Ģ021 Home and Community Preferences: A National Survey of Adults Ages 18-Plus AARP employs a variety of survey research to inform the selection of metrics and policies used in scoring. Personal preferences vary and change over time.Individual Preferences Reflected in the AARP Livability Index Understand important concepts and terms around the AARP Livability Index. There was an error loading policies: Key Terms Most communities have a range of more- or less-livable neighborhoods, but for a community to get a high score, neighborhoods throughout it need to score well. To help that neighborhood score highly under Housing, Neighborhood and Transportation categories, a community could commit to ensuring affordable housing options are near public transit.Ĭities, counties, and states also receive a score based on the average scores of neighborhoods within their boundaries. For example, a transit-rich neighborhood offers convenient options for getting around the community, but its amenities can drive up housing costs.

It can be difficult to score highly across all categories, as issues surrounding livability are complex and interconnected. Challenges of Achieving High Livability Scores A total livability score of 100 means that place is the best in the country in meeting all the metrics and policies for each of the seven livability categories - and while ideal, no community scores 100 in all seven categories. Scores are built from the neighborhood level up. Those with more livability friendly practices earning above a 50 and those facing obstacles to livability scoring lower. Each neighborhood, city, county, or state is scored on a scale from 0 to 100.
