Many factors can influence the way we consider a city's health, from ample green spaces to ease of access to fresh produce and cost of gym memberships. Cities that put an emphasis on active lifestyles and strong healthcare systems are usually at the top of the list. While it’s certainly possible to embrace a healthy lifestyle no matter where you live, these are the vetted healthiest cities in the U.S.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s hilly streets and penchant for an active lifestyle have made it one of the healthiest cities in America. Pair that with a vivid cultural landscape, huge park system, and abundance of organic grocery options and it's easy to see why the city is so healthy. Because San Francisco also has a high cost of living, many of its residents can afford to live a healthy lifestyle replete with organic foods, exercise classes and equipment, and good healthcare. In a recent study, Wallethub measured 43 indicators of health like access to recreational facilities, cost of healthcare, and green space, to determine which of the United States largest cities were the healthiest. San Francisco came out on top due to its walkability, good network of public transportation, and ecofriendliness.
Seattle, Washington
In the shadow of the Cascade Mountains, Seattle is known for its active lifestyle. Proximity to both the mountains and coast make it ideal for getting outside while its mild year-round climate adds to its livability. The Emerald City is rife with farmer’s markets and parks, including nearby state parks, which all help to add to its status as the “2nd Healthiest City in America” according to the recent Wallethub study and the “3rd Healthiest City” according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Unlike many Americans, most Seattlites have an active commute, biking or walking to work. Seattle is dedicated to its vast amount of green spaces like Discovery Park, which stretches a whopping 534 acres.
Arlington, Virginia
Many people might be surprised to see Arlington, Virginia on this list but according to the annual ACSM study on America’s healthiest cities, Arlington came out on top for its sixth consecutive year in a row. So what makes Arlington so healthy? Overall, the city was found to have a low rate of diabetes and most of its citizens had reportedly exercised within the 30 days prior to the study taking place. It’s also a walkable city with lots of parks and recreation areas making it easier to fit in outdoor recreation. This access to easy exercise may also be why residents of Arlington reported a higher rate of happiness. The city is tied with San Francisco for the most residents that can reach a park within a 10-minute walk, further encouraging citizens to exercise. Nearby Washington D.C. is also considered one of the healthiest cities in the country.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Despite its high cost of living and secluded locale, Honolulu’s residents are reportedly some of the healthiest in the nation. Its beautiful year-round weather offers endless opportunities to explore the city's beautiful and unique landscapes allowing Honolulu residents to get outside often. Aside from picturesque scenery and verdant rainforests, residents of Honolulu enjoy over 250 days of sunshine, cultural and ethnic diversity, and access to plentiful outdoor activities like swimming and biking. Under the microscope, Honolulu’s residents have high rates of health insurance, experience low pollution, and have access to a bountiful farmer’s market scene of locally grown tropical produce.
San Diego, California
Nicknamed America’s “Finest City,” San Diego’s Mediterranean climate is perfect for exercising, getting outside, and staying fit in general. San Diego was ranked the “3rd Healthiest City in America” by mindbody.com’s annually updated wellness index, and is home to the highest number of residents that exercise on a regular basis, at 78% of the population. The study also found that San Diego residents don’t mind splurging on wellness products and treatments, only further elevating their already healthy profile. Yoga studios, juice bars, and organic groceries are in high supply, and fun outdoor recreation like paddle boarding and surfing is easily accessible. As if their long list of health benefits wasn’t extensive enough, San Diego also boasts over 40,000 acres of parks and green space throughout the city.
