Series
Measuring New York
A data-driven look at NYC livability across eight dimensions.
Livability is the cumulative effect of thousands of daily frictions and affordances. NYC is one of the most measurable cities in human history — so let's actually measure it.
- Ch. 00
What does "livable" even mean?
Framing the series, the eight dimensions, and how we'll measure them.
- Ch. 01
Mobility & Access
Transit isochrones, the 45-minute job-access shed, and where the subway map lies.
- Ch. 02
Housing Stability & Affordability
Rent burden, evictions, HPD violations, and the geography of staying put.
- Ch. 03
Environmental Quality
PM2.5, asthma ED visits, tree canopy, and the biology of where you live.
- Ch. 04
Access to Daily NeedsNew
Groceries, pharmacies, childcare, parks, schools — the 15-minute walkshed.
- Ch. 05
Public Space & Urban Experience
Parks, plazas, sidewalks, third places — the geometry of public life.
- Ch. 06
Safety
Beyond crime: traffic injuries, dangerous intersections, lighting, and perceived risk.
- Ch. 07
Economic Opportunity
Wages, business density, and what jobs you can actually reach in 45 minutes.
- Ch. 08
Time & Stress
311 density, commute variability, noise, heat — the cognitive load of living here.
- Ch. 09
The Friction Map
Composite indices, tradeoffs, and three different answers to 'where is best?'
Reference companions
Evergreen companions to the narrative arc — not part of the sequential read but referenced throughout.
Hero photo: Pedro Lastra via Unsplash (Manhattan Bridge + downtown skyline at blue hour).