Honolulu Tops the List as the Best City for an Active Lifestyle in 2025
If you’re looking to kickstart or maintain an active lifestyle, your location might play a bigger role than you think.A recent study by WalletHub has revealed the best U.S. cities for staying active, with Honolulu, Hawaii, claiming the top spot for 2025.
The study analyzed 100 of the most populated U.S. cities, evaluating them across two key categories: “Budget & participation” and “Sports & Outdoors.” These categories were broken down into 35 weighted metrics, including factors like average monthly fitness club fees, sports clubs per capita, biking scores, and walkability. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with 100 representing the most ideal conditions for an active lifestyle.
Honolulu’s win comes as no surprise. The Hawaiian capital boasts a wide range of community sports areas, including baseball fields, skate parks, and volleyball courts. Its natural beauty and easy access to outdoor activities also contribute to its high score of 65.55.
Following Honolulu, New York City and San Francisco secured the second and third spots, with scores of 62.90 and 62.76, respectively. These cities excel in offering diverse recreational opportunities and robust infrastructure for walkers, cyclists, and fitness enthusiasts.
Key Findings from the Study
Table of Contents
Here’s a quick breakdown of the top cities for an active lifestyle in 2025:
| Rank | City | Active Lifestyle Score |
|——|—————-|————————|
| 1 | Honolulu | 65.55 |
| 2 | New York City | 62.90 |
| 3 | San Francisco | 62.76 |
The study highlights the importance of accessible recreational facilities and affordable fitness options in fostering an active community.Cities that prioritize these elements not only promote physical health but also enhance the overall quality of life for their residents.
Why Location Matters
“Resolving to exercise is one thing—it’s another to put those thoughts into action,” the report notes. Living in a city with ample sidewalks,parks,and recreational facilities can make all the difference. For instance, Honolulu’s combination of natural landscapes and community sports areas creates an habitat where staying active feels effortless.
On the othre hand, cities with limited infrastructure for physical activity can make it challenging for residents to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This underscores the importance of urban planning and investment in public spaces that encourage movement and outdoor engagement.
What This Means for You
If you’re considering a move or planning a trip,this ranking can serve as a valuable guide. Whether you’re drawn to Honolulu’s tropical allure or New York City’s bustling energy, these cities offer the perfect backdrop for an active lifestyle.
For more insights into the study’s methodology and full rankings, visit Becker’s Hospital Review.
So, lace up your sneakers and explore what these cities have to offer. Your next adventure in fitness and wellness might just be a plane ride away!
The Best Cities for Physical activity: Where Active Lifestyles Thrive
Staying active is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, and some cities make it easier than others to embrace fitness. From walkable streets to expansive hiking trails, these urban hubs are leading the charge in promoting physical activity. here’s a closer look at the top cities that encourage residents to stay on the move.
Honolulu: A Paradise for Active Living
Topping the list is Honolulu, the Hawaiian capital that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The city’s wide range of community sports areas—including baseball fields, skate parks, and volleyball courts—makes it a haven for fitness enthusiasts.Honolulu’s easy access to the ocean also makes it an excellent destination for water sports like surfing,paddleboarding,and swimming.
But that’s not all. Honolulu’s bike-sharing program, extensive parkland, and numerous hiking trails ensure that residents and visitors alike can easily incorporate exercise into their daily routines. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, Honolulu has something for everyone.
New York City: Walkability at Its Best
Coming in second is New York City, renowned for its walkability. As the second-most walkable city in the U.S. (after San Francisco), NYC makes it easy for people to stay active simply by going about their day. The city’s grid-like layout,coupled with its iconic landmarks,encourages walking as a primary mode of transportation.
Beyond its walkability, New York City boasts a wealth of recreational facilities, including dance schools, swimming pools, and basketball courts. Whether you’re jogging through Central Park or joining a pickup game at a local court, NYC offers endless opportunities to stay fit.
San Francisco: A Hiker’s Dream
Taking the third spot is San Francisco,which WalletHub has named the most walkable city in the U.S. But walking isn’t the only way to stay active here. San Francisco is home to an impressive network of hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the Bay Area and beyond.California, as a whole, is a hotspot for active lifestyles, with Los angeles and San Diego also making the top 10. The Golden State’s diverse terrain—from beaches to mountains—makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, california ranks first on the list of the best states for campers, further solidifying its reputation as a haven for active living.
The Top 10 Cities for Physical Activity
Here’s a quick look at the 10 best cities for physical activity:
| Rank | City | Highlights |
|——|—————-|————————————————|
| 1 | Honolulu | Water sports, bike-sharing, hiking trails |
| 2 | New York City | Walkability, recreational facilities |
| 3 | San Francisco | Walkability, hiking trails |
| 4 | Los Angeles | Outdoor activities, diverse terrain |
| 5 | San Diego | Beaches, parks, hiking |
| 6 | Seattle | Green spaces, cycling routes |
| 7 | Portland | Bike-pleasant, outdoor recreation |
| 8 | Denver | Mountain trails, fitness culture |
| 9 | chicago | lakefront trails, sports facilities |
| 10 | Boston | Historic walking routes, fitness programs |
Why These Cities Stand Out
These cities excel in promoting physical activity by offering a mix of urban amenities and natural attractions.Whether it’s honolulu’s oceanfront activities, New York City’s walkable streets, or San Francisco’s hiking trails, each destination provides unique opportunities to stay active.California, in particular, shines as a hub for active lifestyles, with three of its cities making the top 10. Beyond fitness, the state is also a hotspot for thrifters, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban exploration.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to embrace an active lifestyle,these cities are the perfect places to start. From Honolulu’s tropical paradise to New York City’s bustling streets, there’s something for everyone. So lace up your sneakers, grab your water bottle, and get ready to explore these fitness-friendly destinations.
For more insights on the best places for outdoor activities, check out our guides on the best cities for thrift shopping and the best states for campers.Top 10 U.S. Cities for an Active Lifestyle, According to WalletHub
When it comes to maintaining an active lifestyle, location matters. WalletHub recently released its ranking of the best cities in the United States for those seeking to stay fit and healthy. The list, which highlights urban areas with the most opportunities for physical activity, features a mix of coastal hotspots and bustling metropolitan hubs.
Topping the list is Honolulu, Hawaii, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its year-round warm weather, stunning beaches, and access to hiking trails like Diamond Head, it’s no surprise that Honolulu takes the crown. Following closely is New York City,where walking is a way of life,and iconic parks like Central Park provide ample space for jogging,cycling,and more.
Rounding out the top three is San Francisco, a city known for its steep hills, scenic waterfronts, and proximity to nature. Whether it’s biking across the Golden Gate bridge or hiking in nearby Muir Woods,San Francisco offers endless opportunities to stay active.
Other cities making the cut include Las Vegas, which might surprise some with its growing fitness scene, and Chicago, where the Lakefront Trail is a favorite among runners and cyclists. Los Angeles and San Diego also rank highly,thanks to their sunny climates and abundance of outdoor activities.
Here’s a quick look at the top 10 cities for an active lifestyle:
| Rank | City | State |
|——|——————–|—————-|
| 1 | Honolulu | Hawaii |
| 2 | New York City | New York |
| 3 | San Francisco | california |
| 4 | Las Vegas | Nevada |
| 5 | Chicago | Illinois |
| 6 | Los Angeles | California |
| 7 | Denver | Colorado |
| 8 | San Diego | California |
| 9 | Philadelphia | Pennsylvania |
| 10 | Cincinnati | Ohio |
For those curious about the full ranking and the methodology behind it, WalletHub’s detailed analysis can be found on their website.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or simply looking to incorporate more activity into your daily routine, these cities offer the perfect blend of urban convenience and outdoor adventure. From the beaches of Honolulu to the skyscrapers of New York City,there’s something for everyone.
Read More About States to discover how your city stacks up in terms of health and wellness opportunities.
Grab your water bottle, adn get ready to explore these vibrant cities that make staying active a natural part of life. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking to incorporate more movement into your daily routine, these urban hubs offer the perfect environment to thrive.
Key Takeaways:
- Honolulu leads the pack with its blend of natural beauty, water sports, and extensive recreational facilities.
- New York City excels in walkability and offers a wide range of fitness opportunities, from parks to sports courts.
- San francisco is a hiker’s paradise, with stunning trails and a strong emphasis on outdoor activities.
- California dominates the list, with Los Angeles and San Diego also ranking in the top 10, thanks to their diverse landscapes and outdoor culture.
- Urban planning matters: Cities with well-designed infrastructure, such as sidewalks, parks, and bike lanes, make it easier for residents to stay active.
tips for Staying Active in Any City:
- Explore Local Parks: Take advantage of green spaces for walking, jogging, or yoga.
- join Community Programs: Many cities offer free or low-cost fitness classes, sports leagues, and recreational activities.
- use Public Spaces: Walk or bike to work, or explore your city’s landmarks on foot.
- Try New Activities: From paddleboarding in Honolulu to hiking in San Francisco, embrace the unique opportunities your city offers.
Final Note:
An active lifestyle isn’t just about hitting the gym—it’s about integrating movement into your daily life. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these cities provide the perfect backdrop for a healthier, more active you. So, take inspiration from these rankings, and start exploring what your city (or your next destination) has to offer! 🌟
