Beijing, the nation's capital, is still far from reaching the standards for China's most suitable cities for living, with rising housing prices an important factor, according to a recent report.

The findings were released in a blue book compiled by the Chinese Academy of Sciences on Thursday after interviewing over 7,000 Beijing residents.

Over 90 percent of interviewees reckon housing costs are incredibly high. Nearly 60 percent are not satisfactory with the city's medical facilities. Most residents surveyed also think the traffic system and natural environment of residential communities should be improved. However, 70 percent of interviewees believe Beijing is a safe city.

Based on urbanites' degree of satisfaction with the city, the urban habitable index, which takes transportation, environment, health and security into account, averaged 63.8 out of 100 points. The basis for a desirable city to live in is 70 points.

The blue book pointed out Beijing has not yet arrived at a level which a desirable city requires. Efforts should also be made to improve urban construction and management in accordance with the State Council's approval to the Beijing Master Plan in January last year in order to build the city into a modern international metropolis.

(CRI June 24, 2006)