What constitutes a ‘dream neighborhood’ may be different for everyone, but includes similar characteristics just ranked in different orders of importance. According to a recent survey, the National Association of Realtors ranked the following as the top criteria in order on a scale from 1 to 10. Grocery stores, park space, a strong public school system and restaurants ranked highest.
- Grocery store(s) – 8.8
- Park space – 8.0
- Strong public school system – 7.8
- Fine dining restaurants – 7.3
- Fast casual restaurants – 7.3
- Farmer’s market – 7.1
- Public Library – 7.0
- Big box store(s) – 7.0
- Bike lanes and paths – 6.8
- Public transportation – 6.6
- Ethnic and cultural diversity – 6.5
- Lots of families – 6.4
- Street festivals, block parties – 6.2
- Movie theater – 6.1
- Park district/community center – 6.1
- Gyms, fitness studios – 6.0
- Public pool – 5.9
- Communal gardens – 5.8
- Lots of young adults – 5.8
- Bars and pubs – 5.7
- Museum – 5.6
- Public art (murals, sculptures, etc) – 5.5
- Music venue – 5.4
- Large shopping mall – 5.4
- Theatre – 4.9
