What Defines Quality of Life?
Most people consider parks, trees, streams, and natural areas as a very important part of their community. Real property value has been shown to increase when trees are present. Many home buyers consider a property with trees to be worth several thousand dollars more than similar property without trees. Quality of life is also defined by safety and peacefulness. Studies have shown that crime rates are lower in areas with trees. Mental health of residents is improved in communities with a vital urban forest and stress levels are measurably lowered. Hospitalized patients recover quicker in rooms overlooking treed areas.
