Spatial distribution and affordability of “very walkable” neighborhoods in U.S. cities

Keywords: walkability, walk score, affordability, pedestrian, walkable
Session Type: Virtual Poster
Day: Saturday
Session Start / End Time: 4/10/2021 08:00 AM (Pacific Time (US & Canada)) - 4/10/2021 09:15 AM (Pacific Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 51

Abstract

Given the various economic, social, and health benefits associated with more pedestrian-oriented or “walkable” urban environments, walkability itself has become a sought-after amenity. Within many cities in the U.S. and elsewhere, this has contributed to a rise in land values and price premiums among walkable communities, raising concerns about affordability and the potential exclusion of lower-income households. To better gauge potential spatial inequities in the accessibility of walkable neighborhoods, this research examines the distribution and affordability of walkable neighborhoods in the U.S. Of primary concern is whether housing and overall location (i.e., housing plus transportation) affordability of “very walkable” neighborhoods (assessed using the popular “Walk Score” metric) varies significantly among cities and regions. Also of interest are geographic variations in the availability of walkable neighborhoods, and changes in affordability over the previous decade. Preliminary results suggest significant variations in the availability and affordability of walkable neighborhoods across U.S. cities.