Samenvatting

This research examines the causes of resident outmigration from Venice and explores strategies to reattract former residents and make the city more livable for its local population. The objective is to determine how challenges derived from overtourism, such as housing shortages and infrastructure strains, can be addressed in Venice’s case to restore the city's vitality as a residential place. To answer the main research question, “How can Venice balance tourism and local livability to re-attract former residents?”, the study used a mixed-method approach, combining a quantitative survey and qualitative semi-structured interviews with former residents. Research instruments were developed based on prior academic studies, verifying connections between findings and established literature.

While mass tourism was the primary factor in leaving Venice, driving unaffordable housing, reducing community spaces, and developing tourist-oriented infrastructure, other reasons for leaving included a declining sense of community and alienation. Respondents expressed feeling disconnected from their hometown and mentioned losing their sense of belonging due to the prioritization of tourism over residents' needs, leading to place displacement. Key findings suggest that addressing these issues requires targeted housing policies, resident-focused infrastructure, and transportation improvements, stricter tourism regulations, as well as measures to support local businesses to prioritize locals’ needs.