UCLA Luskin Quality of Life Index: 2025 Findings for Los Angeles County
The latest findings from the UCLA Luskin School’s 10th Annual Quality of Life Index reveal that residents of Los Angeles County are grappling with significant challenges related to the cost of living, the aftermath of the January wildfires, immigration concerns, and ongoing issues related to homelessness. The survey, conducted from February 23 to March 9, 2025, involved 1,400 residents and assessed their satisfaction across nine critical categories.
Overall Index Scores and Resident Sentiments
This year, the Quality of Life Index recorded a score of 53, indicating no improvement compared to the lowest score previously recorded. While the overall satisfaction remains stagnant, specific perceptions regarding public safety, healthcare, and transportation have displayed notable shifts.
- Cost of Living
- Public Safety
- Neighborhood Quality
- Transportation and Traffic
- Education
- Environmental Concerns
- Jobs and Economy
- Race Relations
Impact of January Wildfires
The wildfires that affected areas like Altadena and Pacific Palisades have left a profound emotional and economic effect on residents. Notably:
- Over 40% of participants knew someone directly impacted by the wildfires.
- A quarter of the surveyed individuals considered evacuation.
- Nearly one-third reported using masks due to poor air quality.
- 14% experienced a significant loss of income related to the fires, particularly among Latino and lower-income workers.
Additionally, Mayor Karen Bass’s approval ratings have suffered a significant decline, particularly among white residents, while support among African American residents has shown a slight increase. A majority of respondents (89%) support allowing fire victims to rebuild in the same locations, a sentiment that marks a rise from previous years following similar disasters.
Concerns Over Immigration Policy
Heightened concerns regarding immigration policies have surfaced since the return of President Donald Trump to office. The survey indicates:
- 44% of respondents expressed concern over the possibility of deportation, an increase from 37% during Trump’s earlier term.
- Latino, younger adult, and immigrant households reported the highest levels of anxiety.
- Despite these concerns, satisfaction regarding the influence of immigrants on the region appears to have improved.
Mixed Perspectives on Homelessness
In a notable shift, the survey found that fewer residents believe the homelessness crisis is worsening, though public perception remains largely negative:
- Only 10% of Los Angeles residents feel that the situation is improving.
- Over half of the population continues to think that homelessness is on the rise.
This complex landscape of concerns highlights the ongoing struggles faced by Los Angeles County residents in a rapidly changing environment. For those interested in a deeper analysis, a complete breakdown of the study is available for review.
