DAYTON — An annual resident survey in the City of Dayton found that satisfaction rates have improved.
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The 2025 Dayton Survey found that nearly 64% of residents expressed satisfaction with life in the city, an increase from roughly 50% in 2017.
The survey, conducted by the ETC Institute, is used by the city to evaluate its performance and guide future programming.
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Between September and early November 2025, the firm collected 1,305 completed responses from a random mailing of 13,000 households.
The survey measures residents’ opinions of city services, programs, and performance, as well as neighborhood life and other matters.
Public safety and essential city services received some of the highest marks in the study.
Nearly 76% of residents reported being satisfied with Fire and Emergency Medical Services, a figure that has consistently remained above 70% since 2017.
Waste collection services saw a 13% increase in satisfaction since 2021, reaching 75% in the most recent results, according to the data.
Satisfaction with waste services was notably higher among residents aged 50 and older and those who have lived in the city for at least 30 years.
General neighborhood satisfaction has grown by 11% since 2017, with nearly 60% of residents expressing positive views.
Almost 79% of respondents reported feeling safe during the day. Residents who earn more than $25,000 annually reported the highest feelings of safety.
While some services received high praise, others saw lower levels of resident approval. Only 23% of residents expressed satisfaction with the condition of streets, sidewalks, and pavement, according to the data.
Enforcement of city codes and ordinances also saw 23% satisfaction, while 46% of residents reported being dissatisfied with how those regulations are handled.
Satisfaction regarding code enforcement was lowest among residents in downtown and East Dayton.
Affordable housing has become a growing concern for the community, according to the data.
Satisfaction with housing options sat at 31% in 2025, but was outweighed by a 34% dissatisfaction rate.
Residents identified crime, housing conditions such as abandoned homes, drug use, and gun violence as the most important issues in the city.
Perceptions of the Dayton police varied by demographic and location.
While 45% of residents agreed that officers are responsive to neighborhood needs, satisfaction was notably lower among Black residents, people ages 18 to 34, and those living in West Dayton.
To access full survey results, click here.
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