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<p>This study examines the complex relationships between characteristics of living environments and subjective well-being (SWB) across urban and rural areas in Europe. Utilizing comprehensive data from the EU-SILC survey, it applies regression models and structural equation modelling to examine both direct and indirect effects of living environment characteristics, while controlling for regional and socio-demographic factors. The results reveal clear regional patterns: respondents in Northern and Western Europe generally report higher SWB in rural areas, while the reverse is true in post-communist European countries. Southern Europe shows mixed results. Despite offering better access to amenities, urban living is linked to higher levels of pollution, noise, and crime, which negatively impact SWB. These contrasting effects highlight the “urban paradox” in which urban advantages are offset by disadvantages, resulting in highly variable overall outcomes. The study concludes that binary urban–rural classifications oversimplify quality of life assessments, and advocates for a nuanced framework that recognizes regional specificities. Enhancing green spaces and further strengthening access to services are identified as key strategies for boosting SWB in urban environments.</p>

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The Urban Paradox and Rural Appeal: Subjective Well-Being Across Diverse European Living Environments

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

    开放获取

  • 发表日期：

    2025年3月21日

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  • Veronika Jurčišinová,
  • Tomáš Želinský,
  • Oto Hudec

摘要

This study examines the complex relationships between characteristics of living environments and subjective well-being (SWB) across urban and rural areas in Europe. Utilizing comprehensive data from the EU-SILC survey, it applies regression models and structural equation modelling to examine both direct and indirect effects of living environment characteristics, while controlling for regional and socio-demographic factors. The results reveal clear regional patterns: respondents in Northern and Western Europe generally report higher SWB in rural areas, while the reverse is true in post-communist European countries. Southern Europe shows mixed results. Despite offering better access to amenities, urban living is linked to higher levels of pollution, noise, and crime, which negatively impact SWB. These contrasting effects highlight the “urban paradox” in which urban advantages are offset by disadvantages, resulting in highly variable overall outcomes. The study concludes that binary urban–rural classifications oversimplify quality of life assessments, and advocates for a nuanced framework that recognizes regional specificities. Enhancing green spaces and further strengthening access to services are identified as key strategies for boosting SWB in urban environments.