Despite the continuing economic challenges, attachment to the Duluth area remains basically flat in 2010. However, overall satisfaction with the community, as an aspect of attachment, is significantly higher in 2010.

In the Duluth area, social offerings (entertainment infrastructure, places to meet people, community events), openness (how welcoming a place is) and aesthetics (an area's physical beauty and green spaces) are the most important factors in emotionally connecting residents to where they live.

Aesthetics, particularly the natural beauty of the area is perceived as a community strength.

Social offerings, particularly the cultural opportunities, and openness, particularly to young talent needs improvement to increase resident attachment. However, nightlife is rated significantly higher in 2010.  The area is perceived to be most welcoming to seniors and least welcoming to young talent, although both groups are seen as significantly more welcome in the area in 2010. Residents 55 and older are the most attached of all age groups, whereas 18-34 year old residents are least attached.

Ratings of the local economy increased in 2010; however, the economy still was not an important factor in determining residents’ emotional connection to place. Perceptions of civic involvement and safety are significantly lower but are not key drivers of resident attachment