10 Most Walkable Cities in the U.S., Based on Walk Score

San Francisco combines scenic beauty with serious walkability — and with its Walk Score of 89, it's the most walkable city in the U.S.

The city's hilly streets, cultural diversity and compact layout make it one of the most walkable cities in the country. Despite some steep climbs, walkable neighborhoods like North Beach and SoMa are packed with art, music and food destinations.

No surprise here. NYC nears the front of the pack with a sky-high Walk Score, thanks to its dense neighborhoods, extensive public transit and near-constant access to shops, restaurants, parks and offices.

Whether you’re in downtown Manhattan or exploring the boroughs, this is one of the best ways to walk a city.

Compact, historic and built before the car, Boston is ideal for exploring on foot.

The northeast city's rich culture, cobblestone streets and world-class education hubs like Harvard and MIT are accessible by walking or using the reliable public transit system.

The nation’s capital offers walkable access to a rich tapestry of museums, monuments and government offices. With well-maintained streets, abundant parks and vibrant neighborhoods, Washington is a leader in walkability.

You might also notice that the next couple cities tie D.C.'s Walk Score, so we've used the respective Transit Scores as the tie-breaker.

The Windy City scores high for walkability, especially in areas like the Loop and Lincoln Park. Chicago blends green spaces, urban culture and stunning architecture with an efficient transit system.

It’s a great city to explore or live in without needing a car.

Yes, Miami made the list. The city’s tropical climate and growing focus on walkable neighborhoods make areas like Brickell and South Beach a pedestrian's paradise.

Add beaches, galleries, and an exploding culinary scene and you’ve got a surprise entry that’s catching attention for its walkability.

Oakland pairs downtown energy with neighborhood charm, earning high marks for walkability. From bustling districts like Uptown and Temescal to scenic spots around Lake Merritt, the city offers a mix of restaurants, shops and green spaces all within easy walking distance.

Its growing transit network and cultural vibrancy make it a standout for pedestrian populations in the Bay Area.

Philly delivers big-city perks with a neighborhood feel. Known for its walkable layout and iconic sites, the city balances historic charm with modern convenience.

With a Walk Score that rivals larger metros, it’s a walkable city through and through, especially around Center City and University City.

Nicknamed the Emerald City, Seattle is a rising star among walkable cities. While known for hills and rain, its compact core and robust public transit make it easy to navigate by foot.

Walkable neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Belltown are perfect for those seeking a laid back lifestyle that still connects them to the heart of the action.

Often overshadowed by nearby L.A., Long Beach quietly boasts a high Walk Score and a laid-back lifestyle. With easy beach access, dense downtown development and bike-friendly streets, this city stands out as a walkable gem in California.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.