Drivers of Neighbourhood Happiness: Evidence from the Coastal Communities of Kalutara, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Neighbourhood happiness has emerged as a critical component of urban livability, particularly in rapidly urbanizing coastal regions. This study investigates the determinants of neighbourhood happiness in the Kalutara Coastal Zone of Sri Lanka, with a focus on both physical and perceived neighbourhood characteristics, alongside socio-demographic factors. A quantitative approach was adopted, and primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 85 residents along the Kalutara coastal belt. The analysis considered variables such as accessibility to services and amenities, infrastructure quality, noise levels, safety, neighbourhood attachment, social relationships, and demographic attributes. The findings reveal that both physical and social dimensions significantly influence residents’ happiness, highlighting that while improvements in infrastructure and service accessibility are essential, factors such as safety, sense of belonging, and social cohesion play an equally important role in shaping overall well-being. The study underscores the need for an integrated urban planning approach that simultaneously addresses physical development and community-building aspects. By providing empirical insights from a Sri Lankan coastal context, this research contributes to the existing body of knowledge and offers practical implications for policymakers and urban planners to promote more inclusive, sustainable, and livable urban environments.