Our Methodology

Last updated: 23 October 2026

What the map shows

Vivago visualises assessments of neighbourhoods. The heatmap provides orientation, not official statistics or objectively established measurements of safety, crime, cleanliness or quality of life. It is not a substitute for visiting an area or obtaining professional advice.

Synthetic starting data are not residents' reviews

The current dataset in the Düsseldorf pilot area consists predominantly of starting records generated by the provider. These were not submitted by actual residents as personal experiences and are neither representative surveys nor verified factual observations. They must not be treated as an equivalent number of independent user opinions.

Synthetic starting data can contribute to map colours and scores. The map notice therefore expressly links to this explanation. An author name such as “Seeder” identifies a provider starting-data account, not a person who was surveyed. A small dataset or strong colour does not establish a real characteristic of a neighbourhood.

Users can also contribute subjective personal experiences. Email verification or a possible location check proves neither residence nor the factual accuracy of a review. We do not comprehensively verify that every contribution is from an actual resident.

Calculation and personal weighting

Available criteria depend on the country. Numeric and yes/no responses are normalised to a shared range. Nearby reviews contribute more to a local result than distant ones. Their spatial influence is smoothed and limited.

Depending on the calculation, stored review weights, review age and technical trust factors such as email verification and account age are taken into account. Sparse data are statistically smoothed. Colours can therefore appear between individual review locations; they are not observations of every location.

Users with the relevant features may select and weight criteria. The same area can consequently look different with different profiles. Profiles express personal preferences, not universally valid quality judgments.

We do not make a blanket claim that real user contributions always outweigh starting data or that synthetic data disappear automatically. Changes to the dataset and weighting may change results.

Quality, moderation and AI

We may restrict or remove illegal, manipulated or erroneous contributions after review. Technical controls and moderation cannot eliminate errors. Submit concerns through the contact page.

Automated methods and AI may assist in creating provider content or starting data. These are not human experience reports. This methodology does not promise that every item has already been independently checked by experts.

Map sources

The background map is provided by CARTO using OpenStreetMap data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, © CARTO. OSM data are subject to the linked licence terms, including the ODbL. Vivago's own heatmap is distinct from the background map. A map licence does not establish the accuracy of Vivago's ratings.