New NAR Survey Shows Homebuyers Continue to Prioritize Walkable Neighborhoods

When searching for a new home, it's not just the property itself that matters anymore. According to the latest National Association of Realtors® (NAR) Community and Transportation Preference Survey, today's buyers are placing greater importance on neighborhoods that make everyday life more convenient, healthier, and more enjoyable.

The survey found that Americans overwhelmingly prefer communities where they can easily walk to parks, restaurants, shops, and other everyday destinations. In fact, many are willing to pay a premium for that lifestyle.

Shannon McGahn, NAR's Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer, noted that the findings reinforce what real estate professionals see every day: buyers want neighborhoods that support a happy, healthy, and connected lifestyle. The survey data also helps support advocacy efforts for smart community planning at the local, state, and federal levels.

Walkability Is a Major Factor for Buyers

The survey highlights just how important walkability has become:

• 89% of respondents said sidewalks and places to walk are important when choosing where to live.
• 82% said being within walking distance of parks, shops, and other amenities is important.
• 74% value having convenient places to walk or exercise their pets.

While many people want a more walkable lifestyle, they often face obstacles. Seventy-one percent said the destinations they need to reach are simply too far away to walk. Other common barriers include weather (41%) and traffic safety concerns (39%).

Buyers Are Willing to Pay More

Walkability isn't just a lifestyle preference—it also has real financial value.

According to the survey, 63% of Americans would pay more to live in a neighborhood where they can easily walk to parks, restaurants, and shopping.

When asked to choose between a larger home on a bigger lot that requires more driving or a smaller property in a walkable neighborhood, 59% preferred the walkable community.

Support for Smarter Community Design

Many Americans also believe local governments should encourage development that reduces the need for long drives.

• 46% believe creating communities where residents can easily access work, shopping, and daily activities should be a high priority.
• 39% consider it a moderate priority.
• Only 15% believe it should be a low priority.

These results reflect growing support for thoughtful community planning that offers convenience while reducing dependence on vehicles.

Housing Choices Matter

The survey also found that respondents support a variety of housing options that can help meet the needs of different buyers.

• 63% believe small-lot single-family homes are a good fit for their communities.
• 51% support townhomes, duplexes, and other attached housing options.

Offering a wider range of housing types can help improve affordability while giving buyers more flexibility to find a home that fits their lifestyle.

What This Means for Southwest Florida Buyers

Here in Naples and Southwest Florida, walkability continues to be an important consideration for many homebuyers. Communities that offer sidewalks, parks, walking trails, fitness amenities, restaurants, shopping, and convenient access to everyday activities often appeal to buyers seeking an active, resort-style lifestyle.

Whether you're searching for a golf community, a waterfront neighborhood, or a maintenance-free condominium, understanding how the surrounding community supports your daily lifestyle is just as important as choosing the right home.

Survey Methodology: NAR's Community and Transportation Preference Survey is conducted every three years and surveyed 2,000 residents across the nation's 50 largest metropolitan areas to better understand consumer preferences related to smart growth and community design.

Scott & Suzanne Bertha - 732-245-1200
Downing-Frye Realty, Inc.
Your Southwest Florida Real Estate Experts