The most common New Year’s resolution for 2026 is exercising more, with 25% of Americans resolving to do this. Two others that made the top 10 are “improving physical health” and “losing weight.”
Where you live just might determine whether or not you achieve those goals — because it’s easier to stay active in some cities than others, according to a new WalletHub study.
WalletHub analyzed 100 US metros using 35 key metrics, including the average monthly fitness club fee, the city’s bike score, and the share of physically inactive adults.
“The top 10 cities for an active lifestyle distinguish themselves with strong overall scores and a wide variety of sports leagues and outdoor access, including budget-friendly options that enable high participation rates,” WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo tells Realtor.com®.
“Honolulu leads the list with an Active Lifestyle Score of 65.79 and ranks No. 1 in the Sports & Outdoors category, reflecting exceptional access to recreation and natural amenities. New York and San Francisco also place in the top three overall, supported by high Sports & Outdoors rankings and strong infrastructure for walking and biking.”
According to Lupo, Chicago and Cincinnati stand out for affordability and participation, ranking No. 3 and No. 4, respectively, in the Budget and Participation category.
“Overall, these top 10 cities combine extensive recreational infrastructure, high engagement in physical activity, and favorable access to exercise opportunities, making it significantly easier for residents to stay active year-round,” Lupo says. “Favorable weather conditions are helpful, of course, but they are not a deciding factor.”
Here are the 10 most active cities in the country:
1. Honolulu, HI
Median home price: $650,000
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 65.79 out of 100
What it’s known for: Community sports, hiking, and surfing
2. New York City, NY
Median home price: $749,939
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 62.03 out of 100
What it’s known for: Walking, running, and organized recreation
3. San Francisco, CA
Median home price: $872,000
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 59.31 out of 100
What it’s known for: Hiking, biking, and sports clubs
4. Chicago, IL
Median home price: $348,900
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 59.03 out of 100
What it’s known for: Walking, running, and kayaking
5. Los Angeles, CA
Median home price: $1,062,500
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 58.91 out of 100
What it’s known for: Hiking, beach volleyball, and yoga
6. Las Vegas, NV
Median home price: $465,500
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 58.09 out of 100
What it’s known for: Golfing, hiking, and water sports
7. Atlanta, GA
Median home price: $400,000
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 57.32 out of 100
What it’s known for: Swimming, biking, and intramural sports leagues
8. Cincinnati, OH
Median home price: $329,950
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 56.65 out of 100
What it’s known for: Biking, running, and river activities
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9. Denver, CO
Median home price: $557,500
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 56.36 out of 100
What it’s known for: Skiing, snowboarding, and hiking
10. Madison, WI
Median home price: $457,950
WalletHub’s active lifestyle score: 55.83 out of 100
What it’s known for: Ice sports, kayaking, and biking
