For 2026, the most popular New Year’s resolutions seem to center around physical well-being. A notable 25% of Americans have their sights set on exercising more, while others are focused on improving their overall health and losing weight.
Interestingly, your location may play a significant role in your ability to reach these goals since some cities provide better opportunities for staying active. A recent study by WalletHub explored this dynamic.
They analyzed 100 U.S. cities, using 35 different factors, like the cost of health club memberships, bike-friendly ratings, and the percentage of inactive adults.
According to WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo, the top cities for maintaining an active lifestyle excel in various areas, including a variety of sports leagues and access to outdoor activities, which help encourage widespread participation.
Coming in first is Honolulu, boasting an Active Lifestyle Score of 65.79 and ranking high in the Sports & Outdoors category, thanks to its fantastic recreational opportunities and natural surroundings. San Francisco follows closely in the rankings, attributed to its impressive infrastructure for walking and cycling.
Chicago and Cincinnati also stand out, particularly regarding affordability and community participation, landing in the third and fourth positions in those specific categories.
Lupo pointed out that these top cities offer extensive recreational facilities, strong engagement in physical activities, and easy access to exercise options, making it easier for residents to stay active throughout the year. Although pleasant weather conditions help, they aren’t the primary factor.
Here are the ten cities recognized for their vibrant, active lifestyles:
Median home price: $650,000
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 65.79 out of 100
Features: Community sports, hiking, surfing
Median home price: $749,939
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 62.03 out of 100
Features: Walking, running, and organized recreation.
Median home price: $872,000
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 59.31 out of 100
Features: Hiking, cycling, sports club
Median home price: $348,900
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 59.03 out of 100
Features: Walking, running, kayaking
Median home price: $1,062,500
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 58.91 out of 100
Famous spots: hiking, beach volleyball, yoga
Median home price: $465,500
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 58.09 out of 100
Features: Golf, hiking, water sports
Median home price: $400,000
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 57.32 out of 100
Features: Swimming, cycling, intramural sports leagues
Median home price: $329,950
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 56.65 out of 100
Features: Cycling, running, river activities
Median home price: $557,500
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 56.36 out of 100
Features: Skiing, snowboarding, hiking
Median home price: $457,950
WalletHub Active Lifestyle Score: 55.83 out of 100
Famous sports: Ice sports, kayaking, cycling
