The Top Eco-Friendly Places to Live In the U.S.

Homeowners around the country have become much more responsible when it comes to practicing sustainability. From installing solar panels to utilizing energy-efficient appliances to implementing smart technology, there are countless ways to maximize your eco-friendly efforts while minimizing your carbon footprint.

But in this case, we ask you to rewind a few steps to the phase before becoming a homeowner and think about how you can be environmentally conscious even before the house hunt. One way to do that is to choose a home in an eco-friendly city.

Many U.S. cities are determined to achieve true sustainability, making them ideal destinations for families striving toward eco-consciousness. If you’re getting ready to pack up and relocate to a city that fits your healthy lifestyle but aren’t sure where to start, check out this list of some of the country’s greenest cities.

Portland, Oregon

Sitting at the top of many lists of eco-friendly cities in the United States, Portland also shines on a global scale, in conversations with environmentally progressive cities like Copenhagen and Stockholm. The city uses the greatest percentage of renewable energy and is committed to zero waste, with composting and recycling initiatives driving the city’s green efforts. Portland is a hotspot for environmentalists and fitness enthusiasts as well, with ample green space along with abundant walking and running trails.

St. Paul, Minnesota

One study marked St. Paul as the greenest city in the U.S. based on its walkability and low production of waste. In fact, these Minnesotans have some of the lowest amounts of waste produced per person of all U.S. cities. A significantly larger amount of green space per capita contributes to the city’s high rank, along with shorter commutes. In addition to a shorter commute, the city has an eco-friendly public transportation system and other greener methods ? more commuters here utilize ridesharing and biking than the national average.

San Diego, California

Did you know that half of San Diego’s population commutes to work via bike, public transportation, or on foot? This is possible due to the beautiful climate of the city, ample outdoor space, and accessibility to public transportation. Dedication to sustainability is evident in San Diego’s progressive policies, too. The city has reduced its emissions by 25% in less than a decade, and has ambitious goals to achieve 100% renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2035.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu ranks 19 out of 228 in a survey of the healthiest cities to live in America. Honolulu residents have overall better mental health than the U.S. average and 76% live within a half mile of a park, creating tons of opportunity for activity. Its percentage of green commuters, number of green businesses, and eco-friendly transportation system make it a great place for those who want to both experience and appreciate the conservation of nature.

How to Plan a Move to an Eco-Friendly City

This list includes some of the greenest cities in the United States. If your family is planning on practicing zero waste, cutting down on energy usage, or even looking to be more active in the environmental movement, it’s critical to conduct some in-depth research about these eco-friendly cities before even looking for a house for sale. Determine whether or not your dream city is equally as environmentally conscious as your family hopes to be in order to make the best decision for your family’s greener future.