Most Denverites say they like living in the city, survey shows
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Two-thirds of Denverites say they're either "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with the city, a newly released survey finds.
Why it matters: "Satisfaction" levels offer a decent vibe check on how people feel about everything from job prospects and housing costs to safety and overall livability.
By the numbers: The share of Denverites who are happy here clocks in at 66.9%, edging out other cities in the West like San Francisco (66.3%), and comfortably overtaking Portland, Oregon (59.9%).
Yes, but: It's nowhere near San Diego, where a striking 76% of residents say they plan to stay — the second-highest share among major U.S. cities.
- Denver also trails Phoenix (69.4%) and Los Angeles (67.1%) by a hair.
What they're saying: "The biggest vulnerabilities for U.S. cities are cost of living and safety," says Sofia Song, global leader of cities research at Gensler's Research Institute, which conducted the survey.
- People are "choosing cities that are more affordable and safer, and where they feel like they can actually age in place," Song adds.
Between the lines: Denver has struggled with affordability for years. And perceptions around public safety are still catching up to reality. Violent crime is down compared to the pandemic years — but the anxiety hasn't fully lifted.
How it works: Gensler surveyed about 13,500 residents across 27 major U.S cities between July and November 2024.
- The findings are part of a broader report from the design and architecture firm's research wing, City Pulse 2025: The Magnetic City.