New York City, with its bustling sidewalks, renowned parks, and extensive public transport, surprisingly doesn’t hold the title of the most walkable city in the U.S.
According to a recent list by travel experts from USA TODAY, NYC finds itself in the tenth spot among the most walkable cities for 2025.
Philadelphia, just a short distance away, claimed the top spot, indicating that New York’s ranking is quite surprising, especially considering its reputation. Other unexpected choices also made the list.
The report noted that NYC has several landmarks within a manageable walking distance, yet it seems this wasn’t enough to secure a higher ranking.
Taking a glance at the list reveals some unusual selections.
Most Walkable Cities in the U.S.
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Providence, Rhode Island
- Burlington, Vermont
- Columbus, Ohio
- Boston, Massachusetts
- San Francisco, California
- Chicago, Illinois
- Savannah, Georgia
- Washington, D.C.
- New York City, New York
This marks Philadelphia’s third consecutive year at the top of the list, largely thanks to its vibrant Centre City, which attracts both tourists and locals for walking.
It seems that smaller cities benefit from a higher density of attractions, making it easier for visitors to explore on foot.
Walking has become a heated topic among Americans, especially as gas prices and public transport fares rise, even with busy city crowds evident everywhere.
A recent Reddit discussion highlighted the pride felt by Philadelphia residents regarding their city’s prominence as the most walkable.
One former New Yorker chimed in, expressing that while NYC sees many walking and using transit, they find Philadelphia more comfortable to navigate. They noted that quiet streets are commonplace in Philly, but harder to find in New York.
Another contributor pointed out that many neighborhoods in Philadelphia lack significant businesses, making it difficult to walk beyond the bustling Center City. This perspective might raise eyebrows and spark some debate about New York City’s status.
