Walkable, amenity-rich neighborhoods—especially those with nearby green space, trails, and community gardens—are rapidly rising to the top of buyers’ wish lists. In fact, 93% of Americans say walking or biking is the most enjoyable way to get around.
As a result, buyers are flocking to walkable neighborhoods—seeking to ditch their cars, avoid traffic, and spend more time walking, biking, and connecting with their community.
COGNITION Smart Data reveals strong preferences for nature-forward, walkable communities:
Green spaces—whether community gardens, pocket parks, generous sidewalks, or multi-use trails—serve as powerful differentiators in competitive housing markets. They improve mental well-being, enhance curb appeal, and encourage spontaneous social interaction, all of which contribute to higher perceived home value.
Walkable communities also support broader affordability goals. COGNITION Smart Data indicates a growing interest in neighborhoods where residents can rely less on car ownership and more on walking, biking, or using public transit. This makes living in these neighborhoods more affordable by reducing car-related expenses.
As younger generations increasingly opt out of traditional car ownership in favor of walkable environments and public transit, these elements are gradually becoming baseline expectations rather than niche preferences.
Builders can benefit from engaging the community early in the design phase to understand their preferred green spaces and amenities, from gardens and trails to bike lanes and parks. By prioritizing areas that encourage social connection, communities become more appealing and livable.
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