A Comprehensive Analysis of Urban Livability with a Focus on Housing Indicators (Case Study of the Sixteen Neighborhoods of Jiroft City)

Document Type : Original article

Authors

Department of Geography and Urban Planning, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: The rapid growth of the global population, coupled with the rising demand for essential services across sectors such as health, education, and employment, has made housing one of the most pressing global challenges. Housing is no longer limited to the notion of a physical shelter but is increasingly understood as a multidimensional concept that encompasses the entire residential environment.
This includes access to vital services and infrastructure that collectively contribute to household well-being and urban sustainability. Factors such as safety, functional land use, environmental quality, place attachment, and spatial identity are pivotal in shaping the overall livability of urban spaces. As a fundamental determinant of urban livability, housing significantly affects the quality of life for urban residents. This study investigates the level of urban livability in Jiroft city, with an explicit emphasis on housing-related indicators across its sixteen neighborhoods.
Materials and Methods: Methodologically, the research is applied in nature and employs a descriptive-analytical design. Drawing from an extensive body of of relevant literature, a comprehensive model was developed that frames housing livability within four key dimensions: economic, social, physical-spatial, and environmental. Based on Cochran's sampling formula, a total of 390 structured questionnaires were distributed among households within the sixteen neighborhoods of Jiroft to collect primary data. To analyze the collected data, the study applied the COCOSO (Combined Compromise Solution) method—an advanced multi-criteria decision-making technique known for its capacity to integrate multiple indicators in complex urban analyses. Furthermore, Shannon’s Entropy method was employed to objectively assign weights to each criterion based on their informational significance. To map and visualize spatial patterns of livability, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used, allowing for the detailed identification of disparities in housing conditions and livability levels across the city.
Results and Discussion: The analytical results reveal considerable variation in housing livability among Jiroft’s neighborhoods. In the initial evaluation strategy (Ka), Neighborhood 11 achieved the highest livability score (5.92), followed by Neighborhoods 4 (4.54) and 13 (4.44).
Conversely, under the final strategy (K), Neighborhoods 15, 16, and 8 were found to be the least livable, with respective scores of -0.87, -1.03, and -1.11. These findings point to significant spatial inequalities that pose a challenge to inclusive urban development if left unaddressed. The study highlights the critical role of spatial diagnostics and multi-criteria assessment tools in urban planning. By identifying areas with poor housing livability, urban policymakers and planners can design targeted interventions aimed at reducing inequalities and enhancing livability for all residents.
Conclusion: The study not only offers a replicable methodological framework for similar urban contexts but also underscores the importance of evidence-based decision-making in promoting spatial justice and sustainable urban development. The integration of COCOSO and Shannon’s Entropy methods with GIS mapping provides a robust analytical toolset for diagnosing urban disparities and guiding policy interventions. Ultimately, the study advocates for inclusive planning strategies that prioritize housing equity and improve the overall quality of life in urban environments.

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References

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Sustainable Development of Geographical Environment
Volume 7, Issue 15 - Serial Number 15
Winter
December 2025
Pages 54-68

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