NYC Scores High in the Active‑Lifestyle Race
New York City, NY, USAMon Mar 16 2026
New York City earned a spot as the second best U. S. city for staying fit, according to a recent ranking that examined 35 different health‑related factors across the country’s largest urban centers. The study looked at everything from monthly gym fees to how many basketball hoops a city has per resident.
The report noted that New York’s overall score of 62. 03 places it near the top of the list, with a strong showing in sports and outdoor amenities. The city tied for first place in basketball hoops per capita with St. Louis and Las Vegas, and it also led the way in playgrounds for children, matching cities like Chicago and Sacramento.
Walkability is another key point. New York ranks as the second most walkable city in America, giving residents easy access to parks, sidewalks and bike paths. The city also offers a wide array of organized recreation options: dance studios, swimming lessons, bike‑share programs, soccer fields and ice rinks are all plentiful.
People in New York also seem eager to stay active. Google searches for workout ideas and home exercise equipment are higher here than in any other city, suggesting a community that supports fitness goals. This enthusiasm could help newcomers find workout partners and stay motivated.
While New York tops the list, other cities also stand out. Honolulu, San Francisco, Chicago and Los Angeles appear in the top ten for active living, while cities like Garland, Texas and Newark, New Jersey fall near the bottom of the ranking.
The methodology behind the rankings considered two main categories: budget and participation, and sports and outdoors. Factors ranged from gym costs to the number of sports clubs per person, to the availability of public parks and hiking trails. Data came from sources such as the U. S. Census, the EPA and local health surveys, with all figures collected by early December 2025.
Overall, the study paints New York as a city that balances urban density with plenty of ways to move and stay healthy, making it an attractive option for anyone who wants a vibrant, active lifestyle.
https://localnews.ai/article/nyc-scores-high-in-the-activelifestyle-race-7b53625b
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