Utah State University reveals Ogden community well-being survey findings and concerns

The Ogden City Council held a work session on March 18, 2025, focusing on community well-being and the results of a recent survey conducted in partnership with Utah State University. The session began with a presentation from a representative of the university, who emphasized the importance of understanding well-being at the community level, noting that it varies significantly from person to person and community to community.

The survey, which included 80 usable responses, aimed to gather data on the well-being of Ogden residents. It was conducted in the fall of 2024 and utilized various outreach methods, including social media and utility bills, to ensure broad participation. The representative highlighted that the survey results are crucial for informing local planning decisions and understanding residents' needs.

Key findings from the survey indicated that personal well-being in Ogden averaged 3.91 on a five-point scale, with 72% of respondents rating their well-being as a four or five. However, Ogden's well-being scores were slightly lower than the average for similar cities, which the presenter attributed to the city's median household income of approximately $70,000.

The survey also revealed that family life, mental health, physical health, and living standards were the most important domains of well-being for respondents. Interestingly, while residents rated their connection with nature highly, concerns about local environmental quality were prevalent, particularly regarding air quality and the loss of open spaces.

Community connection emerged as a significant factor correlated with personal well-being, with older residents and those with higher incomes reporting better well-being and community connectedness. The survey also assessed residents' perceptions of population growth and economic development, revealing that 67% felt the population was growing too quickly, despite a relatively modest growth rate of 4.5% over the past decade.

Concerns raised by respondents included air quality, water supply, public safety, and homelessness, among others. The council discussed the implications of these findings for future city planning and community initiatives, emphasizing the need for ongoing engagement with residents to address their concerns and improve overall well-being.

In conclusion, the work session underscored the importance of understanding community well-being through data-driven approaches, highlighting both the strengths and challenges faced by Ogden residents. The council plans to use these insights to inform future policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in the city.