New Yorkers Are Bullish on Tech
A new citywide survey confirms what many in the industry have long understood: New Yorkers are bullish on technology driving the future of our city and deeply understand the need to build new infrastructure and programs to meet that need.
In a just-released report from LinkNYC (a Tech:NYC member!) and Tech:NYC, conducted by HarrisX, New Yorkers placed technology near the top of the list when asked which industries matter most for the city’s long-term economic success. The survey also looked at tech infrastructure in the city, and found that more than 3-in-4 New Yorkers support having a Link5G smart pole installed in their neighborhood.
The findings highlight a city that not only uses tech, but believes in it. More than three-quarters of New Yorkers (78%) say tech companies have had a positive impact on the city. An almost identical share (75%) say the tech sector has improved their lives. And the momentum doesn’t stop there: 76% support public policies that attract more tech companies to New York.
The message is optimistic: New Yorkers see the tech sector as a cornerstone of the city's growth, resilience, and potential. And with tech counting as New York’s largest and most dependable source of new middle- and high-wage jobs, it’s clear that tech is the engine driving the city’s economy forward.
AI in NYC
New Yorkers see AI as a valuable tool for the workforce and social impact, with strong interest in AI training opportunities:
More than two-thirds of New Yorkers (68%) believe AI will benefit the workforce and enhance job-related skills.
64% of New Yorkers believe AI will have a positive impact on the city.
A majority of New Yorkers (60%) recognize AI’s potential as a tool for social impact, with strong agreement (66%) that it can help nonprofits scale their services and better serve New Yorkers.
At Decoded Futures the Tech:NYC Foundation, we’re bridging the gap between AI and the social sector, empowering the social sector in New York City by providing the tools, knowledge, and partnerships needed to integrate AI into nonprofit operations.
A Tech Economy That Works for Everyone
New Yorkers increasingly value tech for its broader contributions — from streamlining city services to improving everyday life. Seventy-six percent rate the city’s use of technology in public services as good or better, and 77% support expanding workforce training to help more residents access careers in tech.
This optimism spans boroughs and demographics. Whether it’s learning AI skills, accessing free public Wi-Fi, or seeing tech bring efficiencies to city life, residents are eager for more. Tech is seen as infrastructure.
Why This Matters
For years, we’ve made the case that New York’s tech ecosystem is a pillar of the city’s future. This survey puts numbers behind that argument.
As policymakers chart the next phase of New York’s recovery and growth, they should take note: investing in tech is investing in New Yorkers’ priorities. From inclusive workforce programs to bold infrastructure bets, it’s time to meet the moment.
“This survey’s findings illustrate how the growth of digital technology creates jobs, drives economic activity, and provides services for New Yorkers in every borough,” said Tech:NYC President and CEO Julie Samuels. “We all understand the increasing role technology plays in our society, and that’s why we must focus on modernizing our city’s digital services.”
Check out the full poll results here.