Despite continuing economic challenges, attachment to the State College area is trending higher in 2010. This is mostly because all of the key drivers for attachment are rated significantly higher this year.

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

All three drivers are perceived as community strengths and were rated significantly higher in 2010.  The availability of social community events is the highest rated aspect of social offerings, and natural beauty is the highest rated aspect of aesthetics, although perceptions of parks, playgrounds and trails increased in 2010 as well. 

The area’s openness – it’s rated most welcoming for families with children and least welcoming to young talent – is also a strength this year. Ratings of welcomeness to gays and lesbians and racial and ethnic minorities were significantly higher this year.

Perception of the local education system, a close number-four driver in attachment was also rated significantly higher in 2010, thanks to an improved rating of K-12 public schools.

Although they are not key drivers of attachment, perceptions of basic services, the local economy and leadership are significantly higher this year.