WalletHub Study Ranks 2025's Best and Worst Cities for Recreation
A new study by WalletHub ranks the best and worst U.S. cities for recreation in 2025, highlighting the economic and health benefits of accessible recreational facilities.
WalletHub's latest study, released during National Parks and Recreation Month, ranks the 100 largest U.S. cities based on 47 key indicators of recreation-friendliness, including accessibility of facilities, park quality, and weather. The findings underscore the importance of recreational activities in promoting health and reducing healthcare costs, with cities like Las Vegas, NV, and Cincinnati, OH, leading the pack, while Wichita, KS, and Fort Wayne, IN, lag behind.
The study reveals significant disparities in recreational access across cities. For instance, San Francisco and Boston boast the highest share of the population with walkable park access, 3.1 times more than Indianapolis. Las Vegas leads in playground availability per capita, offering 24.4 times more playgrounds than Gilbert, AZ. Buffalo, NY, spends the most on parks per capita, 11.5 times the amount spent by Chula Vista, CA. Additionally, San Francisco has the most bike rental facilities per capita, 39.5 times more than Fresno, CA.
These rankings not only serve as a guide for individuals seeking cities with abundant recreational opportunities but also highlight the role of local governments in fostering environments that encourage physical activity and community engagement. The study's insights are particularly relevant as communities nationwide strive to balance urban development with the preservation and enhancement of recreational spaces.