About the National Citizen Survey (NCS)

This benchmarking survey provides a comprehensive and accurate picture of livability and resident perspectives about local government services, policies and management. Hundreds of communities in nearly every U.S. state conduct the NCS.

Researchers use scientific survey methods and best practices to guarantee valid findings and put results into meaningful context. Results draw from the largest resident opinion database of its kind, representing over 30 million Americans. The NCS compares local results with benchmarks compiled from surveys conducted across the U.S.

NCS Overview

There are 16 questions total:

• 12 standard across all communities
• 4 custom questions specific to Davidson

There are also 14 demographic questions pertaining to households.

In 2017, questions specific to Davidson included:

1. Affordable Housing – measures to increase supply of affordable housing
2. Financing Improvements – support for tax increase for town improvements
3. Transportation – interest in town funds used for transportation initiatives
4. Bicycle Infrastructure – increase in ridership if amenities added

In 2019, questions specific to Davidson included: 

1. Strategic Plan – priority for quality of life in town
2. Public Facilities – amount willing to pay for new facilities (if tax increase)
3. Affordable Housing – which projects to support
4. Affordable Housing – preferences for funding affordable housing