Charlotte is happy. Its homeowners are happier
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People in the Charlotte area are relatively happier than the average American, according to a new report.
- And if you already own your home, you're probably even happier.
Why it matters: As homeownership becomes increasingly out of reach for some, the latest research from the Charlotte Urban Institute shows a happiness disparity between owners and renters.
- Overall, the region's residents scored an average of 7.4 out of 10 on the happiness and wellbeing study, higher than the U.S. average of 6.8, cited in UNC Charlotte's report.
Reality check: The research still found real anxieties over affordability and the region's future, particularly among renters.
Zoom in: Homeowners were about 23 percentage points more likely than renters to report that life is satisfactory and worth living.
- More than half of renters were unsure they could deal with an unexpected expense, like a car repair, without borrowing or asking for help. Just 23.6% of homeowners said the same.
- The report also found renters had weaker social connections and support systems than homeowners.
- They were more concerned about housing affordability — 69.2% compared with 54.7% of homeowners — than any other issue. It ranked above crime, public education, transportation and taxes.
How it works: The institute's findings came from a mix of publicly accessible regional indicators and 4,000 survey responses, with questions ranging from financial security to sense of belonging.
- The research zone encompassed 14 counties, from Iredell to the north to Lancaster in South Carolina.