The survey, commissioned by the BBC, ABC News and German broadcaster ARD found that of the 1,500 Afghans questioned, 70 per cent believed their country was heading in the right direction, compared to the 40 per cent from 2009.
The growing domestic economy has been credited for increasing optimism. Around 350 small businesses have been established in the Afghan province of Herat since 2003, creating around 40,000 jobs.
The survey revealed that 41 per cent Afghans believe their job prospects are good, an increase from the 29 per cent of 2009.
Attitudes towards the government have also improved. The same survey found that Afghans are more likely to blame the Taliban for violence rather than the Afghan government and allied NATO forces.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
In 2009, 36 per cent of the population blamed violence on the government and allied forces, with 27 per cent blaming the Taliban. Now 42 per cent of the population are attributing violence to the Taliban compared to 17 per cent of the population who are blaming the government and NATO allies.
General McChrystal hails 'progress'
The news came after US President Barack Obama last month approved a major increase in US troops in Afghanistan, ordering 30,000 reinforcements.
General Stanley McChrystal, commander of NATO troops in Afghanistan, said the troop buildup was starting to turn the tide against the Taliban, insisting: "I believe we've made progress."
