Most York County Residents Satisfied with Quality of Life, Note Concerns with Traffic and Housing
Recent survey results presented to Supervisors highlight community strengths and challenges
Results from a recent community survey presented to the York County Board of Supervisors on September 2 show that residents report high overall satisfaction with life in the county, while identifying traffic and housing costs as areas of concern.
The National Community Survey was mailed to a random sample of households this spring. About 440 responses were received, and results were compared with data from other Virginia and U.S. localities.
Key Findings
When asked about long-term priorities, residents most frequently mentioned preserving open space, addressing traffic, expanding affordable housing, and providing services for both children and older adults. Survey results included findings such as:
Quality of life: Nearly 9 in 10 respondents said York is a good or excellent place to live, raise children, and retire.
Safety: More than 90% reported feeling safe in their neighborhoods and in commercial areas during the day. Police services scored above the state average.
Education and libraries: 83% rated K–12 education positively, and 88% gave favorable marks to library services.
Economy: 80% said York is a good place to visit, and 78% rated the quality of local businesses positively.
Mobility: 41% rated overall mobility as good or excellent. Walking, biking, and public transit options all received below-average scores.
Housing: 30% rated affordable housing options positively. Access to child care and mental health services were also noted as challenges.
Government trust: About half of respondents gave good ratings for openness and communication, similar to national averages.
Board discussion & next steps
Supervisors said the survey results were consistent with past studies and community feedback. Several members pointed to transportation as the most pressing issue. Others noted that strong schools and public safety contribute to housing demand, which affects affordability.
Board members discussed using the results to help guide future planning and budgeting. They also raised the possibility of repeating the survey every two years to track changes over time.
County staff said the survey findings will be used in updates to the comprehensive plan and in setting long-term priorities. Officials also mentioned the option of using smaller polls to gather input on specific topics.
A Williamsburg Independent contributor used AI tools and the following sources: