Greater Spokane Incorporated's latest Quality of Life index score from April 2026 sits at 3.7 out of 10, reflecting only a slight improvement from previous surveys. However, the score isn't a sign of failure; it reflects maintained momentum in our community that's beginning to show signs of progress, even while more work remains.

This relatively flat index score is a reflection of a change in metrics, where tangible progress in some areas is being dampened by the major strain of housing and living expenses. In our opinion, if viewed through the lens of a worried citizen, these justified financial anxieties infiltrate and skew every other response. Without this economic anchor, we would likely see a much more significant uptick in the overall score.

The April Pulse survey results also show a different mix of perceptions compared to previous surveys. Included in the latest Quality of Life index score is a 4% increase in residents feeling safe visiting downtown during the day, with a 10% jump among residents in the city of Spokane. The increase is more significant than it appears, showing movement in the right direction despite other persistent challenges, such as a lack of government trust.

Similar to the first three editions of The Pulse, homelessness along with crime and public safety continue to top resident's concerns, but the percentage of respondents identifying these concerns as "urgent" has dropped by 8% and 12% respectively.

Notably, significant financial burdens, attributed to broader economic anxieties, is suppressing the latest Pulse score. Survey results show that 81% of residents are concerned or very concerned about their personal financial situation. Consequently, it's difficult for citizens to report a high quality of life when they're worried about maintaining their standard of living or job security.

In addition, taxes and the cost of living have quickly climbed as top reasons why 68% of Spokane County residents have considered moving away.

A lack of trust in the government also remains a persistent challenge, with 64% of respondents reporting a lack of confidence in how tax dollars are spent. Only 26% of those surveyed say they believe the local government has an effective plan to address the region's most pressing issues. 

Improved feelings of safety should be acknowledged. Improvements can be attributed to tangible legislative decisions, such as the City Council's decision to toughen anti-camping rules, giving law enforcement more authority to address loitering and public camping. Additionally, collaborative efforts including the Safe & Healthy Spokane Task Force, which features a mix of government, businesses, service providers, health care entities, and law enforcement officials, are moving the community toward a safer environment.

Since the perception of safety is already improving, we're hoping to see the steady improvement reflected in the next Quality of Life score. If we look to Seattle as a benchmark, which has reported higher quality of life scores following similar surveys, progress here will be gradual and incremental.

While the score is a sobering reminder of the work ahead, it provides an honest foundation for the momentum already underway. By deepening the collaborative efforts that have already begun to move the needle on safety, Spokane can navigate a path from incremental progress toward lasting results.