Geography and Human Relationships

Geography and Human Relationships

Comparative Analysis and Evaluation of the Dimensions Affecting Urban Livability (Case Study: Padadshahr and Amirieh Neighborhoods in Ahvaz)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 MSc student in Geography and Urban Planning, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
2 Professor Department of Geography & Urban Planning, Faculty of Letters and Humanities, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran
10.22034/gahr.2026.581803.2730
Abstract
Urban livability is a multidimensional concept that emphasizes the creation of desirable urban environments aimed at meeting the material, social, and psychological needs of citizens. The present study was conducted to identify and analyze the dimensions affecting urban livability and to provide a comparative assessment of two neighborhoods with different urban fabrics in the city of Ahvaz, namely Amirieh as an old urban fabric and Padadshahr as a new urban fabric.The research employed a mixed-methods approach (quantitative–qualitative) with a descriptive–analytical framework. Required data were collected through documentary studies and systematic direct observation using a researcher-made checklist. The research instrument consisted of 20 indicators categorized into four dimensions: environmental, socio-cultural, physical, and economic. A scoring scale ranging from 1 to 5 was assigned to each indicator. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS software.The findings revealed significant differences between the two neighborhoods across all four dimensions of urban livability. Results indicated that Amirieh neighborhood performed more favorably in the social dimension (mean = 3.72) and economic dimension (mean = 3.50), whereas Padadshahr neighborhood showed better conditions in the environmental dimension (mean = 3.80) and physical dimension (mean = 3.75). Nevertheless, no significant difference was observed between the two neighborhoods in terms of the overall livability indicators.Accordingly, it can be concluded that although the distribution pattern of livability components differs between the two neighborhoods, their overall level of urban livability is not significantly different. Furthermore, the stronger social capital in the old fabric of Amirieh neighborhood has largely compensated for its physical and environmental deficiencies. Finally, the study suggests that adopting an integrated approach based on physical regeneration alongside the preservation and strengthening of social capital can serve as an effective strategy for enhancing urban livability in Ahvaz.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 25 May 2026

  • Receive Date 15 May 2026
  • Accept Date 25 May 2026