NAR study: Americans prefer walkable communities

Realtor Survey Shows Strong Demand for Housing in Walkable Communities

San Mateo, Calif. (June 30, 2023) – Research produced by the National Association of REALTORS® shows a persistent demand for walkable communities, including the following findings:

When asked if deciding today where to live:

• 79% said being within an easy walk of other places and things, such as shops and parks, is very/somewhat important. 78% of those indicated that they would be willing to pay more for a dwelling in a walkable community.

• 85% said sidewalks and places to walk are very/somewhat important.

• 65% said having public transport nearby is very/somewhat important.

• 56% said they would prefer a house with a small yard and be able to walk to places vs. 44% who would prefer a large yard and would need to drive to most places.

• 53% would prefer an attached dwelling (own or rent a townhouse/condo/apartment) and be able to walk to shops, restaurants, and a short commute to work vs. 47% who would prefer a single-family home (own or rent) and have to drive to shops, restaurants and a longer commute.

"In San Mateo County, like across the country, we've seen continued interest for housing located in walkable communities," said Marla Perego, President of the San Mateo County Association of Realtors. "The availability of data like this will give valuable insight to real estate professionals, and it will help local lawmakers make decisions about land use and transportation policies that can help our region meet this demand."

According to the NAR study, Americans living in walkable communities are more likely to be very satisfied with their quality of life. This study shows that a substantial demand for walkability persists for Americans of all ages.

The biannual NAR Community & Transportation Preferences Survey polls residents in the 50 largest metropolitan areas of the United States.

NAR Newsroom: New NAR Survey Finds Americans Prefer Walkable Communities

San Mateo Daily Journal: Housing study: People want walkable cities (July 25, 2023)

The San Mateo County Association of REALTORS® promotes the highest ethical standards of real estate practice, serves as an advocate for homeownership and homeowners, and represents the interests of property owners in San Mateo County. For more information, please contact SAMCAR at (650) 696-8200 or samcar@samcar.org. San Mateo County home sales statistics, association news and information are available on SAMCAR's web site at www.samcar.org.