Americans often aim to lead active and healthy lives through fitness, balanced diets, and moderation. The environment where people live significantly impacts their ability to maintain a lifestyle that supports their goals.
A recent WalletHub study assessed 180 of the most populous cities in the United States, considering various health indicators such as medical costs, fruit and vegetable intake, fitness levels, and access to recreational facilities, to identify the healthiest cities in America.
1. San Francisco, California: Golden Gate to Good Health
San Francisco leads as the healthiest city, boasting numerous fitness studios and outdoor green spaces. A low obesity rate of 19% and ample access to healthy food options contribute to its top ranking.
The city allocates more funds per capita to its parks than other major cities and features a high number of healthy restaurants with vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
San Francisco’s design encourages walking and biking, promoting daily physical activity among residents.
2. Honolulu, Hawaii: The Big Pineapple’s Paradise of Wellness
Honolulu, known as the Big Pineapple, ranks just behind San Francisco, earning the title of the most active city.
Its near-perfect climate and readily available fresh food promote a healthy lifestyle. The city excels in mental health, with fewer than 13% of adults reporting frequent bad mental health days, likely due to the beautiful scenery and numerous hiking trails.
3. Seattle, Washington: Emerald City’s Evergreen Health
Seattle, the Emerald City, is celebrated for its well-maintained parks and outdoor spaces. An impressive 86% of Seattle residents engage in physical activity regularly.
Despite having some of the highest medical care costs in the nation, Seattle residents prioritize healthy living, frequently searching for “healthy dinner ideas” and “health food stores” online.
4. San Diego, California: Sun, Surf, and a Healthy Surge
San Diego, known as America’s Finest City, ranks sixth in the number of parks. The Southern California city provides many outdoor activities at its beaches, parks, and green spaces, thanks to its ideal weather.
Residents have access to weekly farmer’s markets and organic farm subscriptions, which aligns with its high food ranking.
The abundance of yoga studios, gyms, and outdoor boot camps further establishes San Diego as a hub for health and fitness.
5. Washington, D.C.: Capital Gains in Health and Well-being
The nation’s capital is among the top five healthiest cities, with a high number of outdoor green spaces. D.C. residents enjoy a higher life expectancy than the national average, and a low percentage of the population lacks medical insurance.
Residents consume a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and are among the top 25 cities for fitness. The city also provides numerous free public parks for exercise, despite high fitness club membership costs.
6. Portland, Oregon: Rose City’s Bloom of Healthy Living
Portland boasts the most healthy restaurants per capita and numerous greenspaces for outdoor activities and fitness.
Its 279 city parks and natural areas offer ample hiking and walking trails, supporting a healthy and fit lifestyle. Oregon’s climate supports the access and consumption of more fruits and vegetables.
7. Denver, Colorado: Mile High City, Sky-High Health
Denver consistently ranks as one of America’s healthiest cities, supported by a health-conscious mindset and exercise culture.
The city’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains allows residents to enjoy fantastic parks and recreational activities.
Denver offers many activities like hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing in the spring and summer, while winter provides opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
8. Salt Lake City, Utah: Crossroads to a Healthier Journey
Salt Lake City attracts individuals seeking a more adventurous and healthy lifestyle. The city’s numerous national parks and green spaces promote a healthy existence.
There are around 193 trails in the greater SLC area, providing ample opportunities for locals to engage in physical activity.
The religious population’s rejection of addictive substances contributes to the city’s high health ranking.
9. Scottsdale, Arizona: Western Town’s Golden Years of Fitness
Scottsdale, with its 200 golf courses and resorts, has a high ranking for physically active adults. Its excellent weather and large retiree population contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Exercise is a key factor in Scottsdale.
10. Irvine, California: Parkside Wellness and Active Living
Irvine’s access to parks, trails, and open spaces makes it one of the healthiest cities in America. Irvine ranks second for the most active adults, who utilize the hike and bike trails, fitness facilities, and Seal Beach. Locals have access to award-winning hospitals and top research universities.
11. Los Angeles, California: City of Angels, Advocates for Health
Los Angeles offers endless options for working out, eating right, and increasing mindfulness. The city’s diversity, innovation, and commitment to healthy living make it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
With a high ranking for healthy restaurants, residents can find cuisine tailored to their dietary needs. The fitness-oriented city offers options like yoga, kickboxing, and pilates.
12. Minneapolis, Minnesota: Twin Cities, United in Well-being
Minneapolis is known for being an active and healthy city in the Midwest. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities, a network of bike paths, and an ethnically diverse population providing different but healthy foods. City officials ensure that lakes and greenspaces are well-maintained.
13. Austin, Texas: Keeping it Fit in the Live Music Capital
Austin ranks high for its fitness score, supported by a healthy lifestyle mentality. The city offers well-maintained parks and greenbelts, fitness studios, and healthy restaurants.
Residents frequently use the Town Lake trails for running and visit juice and smoothie shops. Austin is home to Whole Foods headquarters and numerous farmers’ markets, providing fresh produce and lean meats.
14. Huntington Beach, California: Surfside Serenity and Health
Huntington Beach encourages a healthy and active lifestyle with its pleasant climate. The beach provides a safe place for jogging, yoga, and other outdoor activities. Residents prioritize mindfulness and nutritious foods, with many healthy food options available.
15. South Burlington, Vermont: New England’s Healthy Haven
South Burlington boasts the highest number of physically active Americans and a low percentage of people who don’t eat fruits and vegetables. Vermont has some of the best healthcare options for its residents. The thriving farming community and readily available farmers’ markets contribute to a healthy existence.
Alicia Richards