How public services in “Future Communities” influence Residents’ Satisfaction? A perspective based on “Micro-Location” perception

Zhejiang Province, China, has launched a “Future Community” model aimed at enhancing Residents’ Satisfaction. However, research on the individual micro mechanisms influencing this satisfaction with public services is limited, and the application of “Micro-Location” theory in public service allocation remains insufficient. This study surveyed 469 families from 14 “Future Communities” in Quzhou City using stratified random sampling. By integrating the ACSI model with “Micro-Location” theory and a community construction index, we developed an SEM model to analyze how public services impact Residents’ Satisfaction. Statistical analysis via SPSS and AMOS assessed Residents’ Perceptions of public service Micro-Location and its effect on satisfaction. Results indicate: 1) Spatial Perception significantly boosts Residents’ Satisfaction (effect value: 0.75); 2) Spatial Perception influences Value Perception through Residents’ Expectations and Quality Perception, subsequently affecting Satisfaction (effect value: 0.159); 3) Value Perception positively affects Residents’ Participation (effect value: 0.51), while Spatial Perception negatively impacts it (effect value: −0.17). In conclusion: 1) The “Micro-Location” theory provides new insights for urban studies; 2) Residents’ Spatial Perception of public services greatly influences their understanding of “Micro-Location” and overall satisfaction; 3) Value Perception plays a crucial role in mediating evaluations of public services related to satisfaction and resident participation enthusiasm.