Summary:
A 2025 analysis of 36 major U.S. cities highlights which areas are safest and most dangerous for pedestrians. Cities with better walkability, lower pedestrian fatalities, and pedestrian-focused design rank higher, while car-dependent cities, especially in the South and Southwest, have higher fatality rates. Safety requires both infrastructure and responsible behavior from drivers and pedestrians.
What makes walking safer in some cities than others? Sometimes it comes down to the basics—clearly marked crosswalks, lower speed limits, or better lighting. Other times, it’s about how cities prioritize people on foot in environments designed primarily for cars…