The Role of Social Interactions and Economic Well-Being in Shaping a Happy City in Informal Settlements of Tabriz Metropolis

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Planning and Environmental Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran

10.22034/gp.2025.67086.3397

Abstract

The rapid growth of urbanization and the increasing population of informal settlements have made attention to psychological well-being and urban quality of life an inevitable necessity. The social, economic, and environmental challenges faced by these areas have a direct impact on citizens’ mental health and happiness. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the development of a happy city in the informal settlements of Tabriz metropolis. Methodologically, the research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of nature and approach. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire. A random sampling method was employed, and 410 questionnaires were completed. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) in Smart PLS software and further examined through the Sobel test. The findings indicate that variables such as urban environmental quality, access to public spaces, economic status, safety, and social interactions have a significant effect on urban happiness. Moreover, the mediating variables of social interaction and perceived well-being played a critical role in reinforcing these effects. The Sobel test revealed that safety and economic conditions can significantly enhance citizens’ happiness through the creation of a sense of well-being and positive social engagement. The results underscore that achieving a happy city requires a multidimensional and integrated approach that simultaneously considers social, economic, and environmental factors. Policy-making aimed at improving the quality of life in informal settlements should focus on strengthening public spaces, enhancing safety, improving economic conditions, and upgrading social infrastructure to make meaningful strides toward a happier and more sustainable urban future.

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Journal of Geography and Planning

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 July 2025

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