National Community Survey Results

The Survey

“The National Community Survey is a standardized five-page comprehensive survey used to assess resident opinion about community and local government,” Neumeyer said.“The NCS focuses on the livability of Lynnwood by categorizing some survey questions into 10 main facets of community livability.”

Those facets include safety, community design, utilities, mobility, economy, education, arts and culture, natural environment, parks and recreation, health and wellness, and inclusivity and engagement.

This is the sixth time the NCS Survey has been conducted by the City of Lynnwood, beginning in 2002. The 2025 survey was conducted from March 20 to May 1. The survey was conducted in two phases: 3,000 randomly selected residential addresses were invited to participate, with 323 responses, or 11%, which yielded a statistically valid 95% confidence rating with a margin of error of +/-5%. Additionally, an open participation survey was later made available to the community, with 266 responses received.  

Results

Of the 123 survey items for which residents provided evaluative ratings, 5 received ratings higher than the national benchmark, 89 received similar ratings, and 29 received lower ratings.

When compared to results from Lynnwood’s NCS results from 2018, in 2025, 27 received ratings that were statistically significantly higher than the previous survey iteration, 62 received similar ratings, and 11 received lower ratings.

Ratings are considered similar if they are within 10 points of the national average, and higher or lower if they are more than 10 points different from the average.

Key Findings:

• Residents value government performance, with notable improvements over time.

• A high sense of safety defines Lynnwood, yet residents still identify room for improvement.

• Lynnwood’s economy shows strengths, but affordability remains a concern.

• Residents express strong satisfaction with utility infrastructure.

• Mobility is a community strength in Lynnwood. 

"The relationship between the City and our community members is only successful if we engage with one another and create a dialogue about how we can support each other," said City of Lynnwood Mayor Christine Frizzell. "We want to know how you feel we are doing as a community so we can better serve you. The National Community Survey helps us capture that vital insight and feedback."   

About The National Community Survey and Polco: The National Community Survey (NCS) was developed by the National Research Center at Polco. The survey captures opinions on the economy, mobility, community design, utilities, safety, natural environment, inclusivity, engagement, and other elements of Lynnwood's overall livability. The results will show the community's strengths, areas of improvement, and what matters most to residents. The City will also see how its performance compares to other communities nationwide.

Polco brings people and data together to help build stronger, healthier communities. With award-winning community engagement tools and services, Polco allows leaders to engage residents around their most important topics, align goals, and strengthen public trust. Polco is committed to a strict privacy policy designed to keep participants' responses confidential and protect personal data. Learn more at info.polco.us.