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By Jonah Grinkewitz 

���ϲ����� continues its long-standing commitment to research initiatives that not only advance academic knowledge but also strengthen communities in the Hampton Roads region. Through its Social Science Research Center (SSRC), ���ϲ����� recently completed its 16th annual "Life in Hampton Roads" (LIHR) survey, offering fresh insights into the region’s quality of life, economy and social dynamics in 2025. 

Understanding Community Sentiments and Needs 

The LIHR survey, funded by the University's Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy, serves as a barometer for residents' perceptions on pivotal topics, such as quality of life, housing, flooding, employment and public health. This year, the survey reached 718 individuals through a web-based platform, capturing a diverse range of resident opinions. 

Results showed an encouraging uptick in general sentiment about living conditions, reflecting a pre-COVID optimism with 68.5% of participants rating the quality of life in the region as excellent or good.  

“Notably, perceptions of quality of life in one’s own city and neighborhood were rated even more favorably, suggesting that residents perhaps identify more challenges at the regional versus local level,” said Tancy Vandecar-Burdin, Ph.D., director of the SSRC. 

Economic Insights and Housing Challenges 

The survey highlights economic conditions as perceived by Hampton Roads residents, with a majority (51.3%) describing them as good or excellent. A noteworthy 47.3% reported financial stability comparable to the previous year, underscoring a sense of steadiness amid broader economic challenges. 

However, housing remains a pressing issue. Almost half of the respondents regarded neighborhood housing as somewhat to very unaffordable, highlighting the ongoing struggle surrounding housing costs.  

“This reflects continued concerns about affordability which would suggest targeted strategies are needed to ensure inclusive, sustainable economic growth,” said Dr. Vandecar-Burdin. 

Addressing Environmental and Health Challenges 

���ϲ�����’s research shines a light on other critical regional issues like flooding — a significant concern for the coastal cities in Hampton Roads. About half of the respondents believe their city faces a substantive risk of severe flooding within the next three decades. This underscores the urgent need for proactive engagement in environmental resilience and adaptation strategies, areas where ���ϲ�����’s research expertise is invaluable. 

In terms of health, while more than half of the residents rate their health positively, access to healthcare remains a challenge for many.  

“With 43% having some difficulty obtaining needed healthcare services, the University’s research indicates an area ripe for policy intervention and improvement,” said Dr. Vandecar-Burdin. 

One way ���ϲ����� is helping meet the healthcare needs of the region is by expanding enrollment for its nursing pre-licensure program. 

Education, Politics and Public Safety Perceptions

In the survey, public school education received mixed reviews, with a little over a third rating their local systems as good. Meanwhile, perceptions of policing were generally positive, though trust levels have seen some decline. The political landscape captured by the LIHR survey accurately mirrored the recent election outcomes, demonstrating its reliability in reflecting regional political sentiments.  

Empowering Through Research and Action 

���ϲ�����’s ongoing commitment to conducting the annual survey highlights the University’s critical role in informing policy, fostering dialogue and driving strategic initiatives that bolster community welfare. The findings of the LIHR survey offer essential insights that help guide decision-making processes across local governments, corporations, and nonprofits, ensuring that Hampton Roads is equipped to meet both current and future challenges. 

���ϲ����� stands as a beacon of research and education in Hampton Roads, continually striving to enhance the quality of life through diligent research and dedicated community engagement. Through initiatives like the LIHR survey, ���ϲ����� ensures its role as not just an academic institution but as a vital cornerstone in the development and prosperity of the region it calls home.

Article image: Tancy Vandecar-Burdin, Ph.D., director of ���ϲ�����'s Social Science Research Center.