The 10 Most Walkable Cities in the U.S., Ranked
Key Points:
- Redfin, always the bridesmaid of real estate websites, has just listed the top 10 most walkable cities in the U.S., probably to make us feel bad about our sedentary lifestyles.
- The rankings measure each city based on the ability to do errands, go out, and generally live life without the need for a car. Basically, the ranking of cities where you can effectively ditch your gas-guzzler.
- San Francisco topped the chart, because apparently steep hills aren’t a problem when you’re barely able to afford rent. Let alone a car.
- New York came second, possibly because getting around on foot is the only escape from the endless, inescapable traffic.
- Boston came third, which must be a relief for the city’s stressed-out drivers, who can now focus on debating about sports instead.
- Cities like Seattle, Washington, D.C., Chicago, and Miami also made the cut, but, obviously, Los Angeles didn’t dare show its face on this list. Too much pride in the number of luxury cars, perhaps?
- The data included the availability and accessibility to nearby amenities, perhaps hiking opportunities for cities like Denver? No comment on whether those nearby amenities include the ability to avoid human interaction or not.
- Moreover, Redfin’s list was compiled after analyzing local housing and rental markets—because every good walk should end at an overpriced, undersized apartment.
Digitally Stepping Out – A Witty Wrap-Up
Alright, in layman’s terms: Redfin wants us to walk more. They’ve listed some cities that are perfect for this and, albeit these places have managed to integrate “bi-pedal motion” and “daily life” effectively, which is good news for our health, our wallets, and the planet. But let’s not forget, these are also the cities where you’ll probably have to surrender your first-born child for a one-bedroom apartment.
On a second thought, this walkability might be a ploy. Does walking to work from your closet-sized apartment count as being in a ‘walkable city’? Anyway, Redfin’s list not only gives us footloose freedom, but it’s also a reality check about how an abundance of amenities doesn’t necessarily mean affordability.
Congratulations to San Francisco, whose residents can’t afford a car, but can trek up breathtakingly steep hills to enjoy stunning views of their inescapably expensive city. Bravo New York, Boston, and the trailing list of cities, for doling out a stressful driving experience, successfully pushing your populations to trust their two feet.
In Conclusion
Remember folks, a walkable city may be the way forward for a health-conscious, environmentally-friendly lifestyle. But when your budget’s on a diet, tread carefully through these walkable, yet wallet-heavy cities.
Original article: https://www.redfin.com/blog/most-walkable-cities-in-the-us/
