Consumers Prefer Walkable Communities Survey Shows

A majority of people want to live in walkable communities, according to the NAR Community and Transportation Preference Survey.

The report shows a persistent demand for walkable communities, with 79% stating that being within an easy walk of other places and things, such as shops and parks, is very/somewhat important. And 78% of those indicated that they would be willing to pay more for a place in a walkable community.

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

Eight-five percent of those surveyed said sidewalks and places to walk are very/somewhat important and Gen Z and millennials were more likely to agree that there are sidewalks on most streets and lots of places such as shops, cafes and restaurants to walk to. Having public transportation nearby is very/somewhat important to 65%. Generation plays a role in separating choices: Gen Zers and millennials are more likely to prefer an apartment or townhouse with walkability and a short commute. Gen Xers and Baby Boomers are more likely to lean toward a detached single-family home.

In addition, if deciding where to live today:

• 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.

“We’re continuing to see interest for housing located in walkable communities,” said PAR President Al Perry. “NAR’s invaluable research and data help provide us with valuable insights to help our clients find a home in a location that best suits their needs. We can also provide this information to our local and state lawmakers as they make decisions about land use and transportation policies that can help the commonwealth meet this demand.”

The biannual survey polls residents in the 50 largest metropolitan areas of the United States.