Jersey City ranking higher than New York City in the list of the world’s most walkable cities has certainly raised eyebrows. While NYC is known for its bustling streets and pedestrian culture, the study by Insider Monkey sheds light on the impressive walkability of Jersey City. The benefits of living in a walkable city are numerous, ranging from economic activity to improved health and air quality.
Factors such as safety, crime rates, distance between attractions, air quality, public transportation, and cleanliness were considered in compiling the list. Surprisingly, the top spot went to Florence, Italy, known for its compact layout and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
The rankings reveal that Jersey City outperformed NYC in terms of walkability, with shorter distances between attractions and higher safety scores. Despite NYC’s reputation as a city meant for walking, Jersey City’s more compact layout and safety measures have placed it ahead on the list. This unexpected result highlights the intricate balance needed to create a truly walkable city.