Applying the IPA-Kano model to examine environmental correlates of residential satisfaction: A case study of Xi'an

Many studies have examined the impacts of neighborhood characteristics on residential satisfaction. However, because their performance is not connected with their importance in residential choice, community planners have yet to know which characteristics need to be prioritized for neighborhood improvements. Using the 2014 data from Xi'an, China, to examine environmental correlates of residential satisfaction, this study pioneers the application of importance-performance analysis and three-factor theory for a joint evaluation of importance and performance. It classifies neighborhood characteristics into basic factors, performance factors, and excitement factors for urban, suburban, and exurban neighborhoods. By considering their performance, it further identifies development priorities for neighborhood self-improvement and the priorities for competition among different neighborhoods. These priorities allow local governments to deploy scarce resources to improve residential satisfaction of existing residents and attract more residents.