Resident Satisfaction Survey Results for 2022

At Committee of the Whole on November 30, City Council heard the results of the City’s 2022 Resident Satisfaction Survey, conducted every two years to monitor resident perceptions and to improve performance using the best data available. 

• 65% of residents rated their overall satisfaction with the programs and services provided by the City of St. John’s a 7 or higher out of 10.
• 78% of residents rated their overall quality of life a 7 or higher on a 10-point scale.
• 57% of residents rated the overall value of what they receive for their tax dollars a 7 or higher out of 10.

Overall, the survey results show a general decline in scores from 2020, returning to 2018 levels.

“While we are disappointed to see a decline in levels of satisfaction, we are also aware that this is in line with the current economic and political climate,” said Mayor Breen. “Our residents are facing so many challenges as we emerge from the pandemic, with rising inflation and fears of a recession. General satisfaction with all levels of government is down. This survey helps us to understand the concerns and confirms the need for us to concentrate on top priority areas for our residents.”

Priority areas for improvement and highest levels of satisfaction remain largely unchanged from 2020. Road maintenance, traffic planning and road and sidewalk snow clearing continue to be top priority areas for improvement, with Metrobus and Go/Bus added to the list. New questions were also added to help the City better understand residents’ current household financial situation, housing and health.

“As the City prepares for budget 2023, we do note that 90% of respondents support balancing investment between providing basic municipal services and offering services and programs that enhance quality of life in St. John’s,” said Mayor Danny Breen. “Council is also pleased to see that more than 90% feel St. John’s is a great place to make a life and are proud to say they live here.”

The sample size was increased from 500 to 600 in 2022 to capture more residents who identify as one or more minority groups. Overall, 8% of respondents indicated they were a visible minority; 3% are indigenous; 14% reported that they have a disability; and 8% were LGBTQ2IA+.

The survey was conducted my MQO Research via telephone between September 26 and October 13, 2022. A total of 603 surveys were completed (168 landline / 435 cell) resulting in an overall margin of error of ± 4.0 percentage points 19 times out of 20. 120 surveys were conducted in each of the five Wards, and the results were weighed by age and gender, based on the most recent census data.

The City of St. John’s aims to be a city that performs effectively and delivers results. Conducting a statistically valid survey of residents every two years is identified as a priority in the Our City, Our Future strategic plan.

Read the full report