Dr. Stephen Klineberg of the Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University released the results of the 30th Annual Kinder Houston Area Survey last week.

Dr. Klineberg and his team have been conducting this systematic research for over 30 years. “It has measured this region’s remarkable economic and demographic transformation and recorded the way area residents are responding to them.”

Admittedly, I am a devotee of the Houston Area Survey and the information it provides. I have used the data since it first became available to help me and my clients better understand the Houston area.

One of my favorite highlights from this year’s survey is the statistic that if you live in the Houston area, you like living here. 90% of respondents agreed. Some even admitted that they moved here reluctantly but like it once they are here.

This is truly amazing in light of other facts revealed about our region. Census data reveals that 75% of residents under the age of 30 are non-white. We have an aging white population with ethnic diversity as the hallmark of our future. Our attitudes toward this changing demographic status seem to hold steady. While some people resist the change, most consider it one of the great advantages to living in the Houston region. Younger respondents are much more embracing of the diverse culture than older respondents.

“Houston is where America’s four major ethnic communities – Whites, Asians, Blacks and Latinos – meet in more equal numbers than almost anywhere else in the country,” Dr. Klineberg stated. “The challenges and opportunities of creating a more unified and multiethnic society will be seen here first. Houston is where the American story is being written.”

Houstonians are optimistic about their own future. While they remain somewhat uncertain about the American economic recovery, they believe that the Houston area is improving and is a good place to be during these difficult times.

We have also become increasingly aware that a high school education may not be enough to find quality jobs in the future. A college education will be critical in our high-tech, knowledge-based economy.

There is so much more to the survey that I encourage you to visit this site and learn more.