Location matters when it comes to health. Some places promote wellness by expanding access to nutritious food and recreational facilities. Others strive to keep healthcare costs affordable for everyone or keep parks clean and well-maintained. When a city doesn’t take care of these important issues, it can be hard to keep up good health.
To determine which areas prioritize residents’ well-being, WalletHub compared more than 180 of the most populated U.S. cities across 41 key indicators of good health. Our data set ranges from the cost of a medical visit to fruit and vegetable consumption to the share of physically active adults.
Russ Molloy
J.D. – Senior Health Fellow, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy – Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
What are the most important factors to consider in choosing a city that is good for your health?
Look for excellent healthcare providers: hospitals AND primary care. Also, cities with extensive recreational opportunities that do not require payment (e.g., parks, walkways, bike paths, etc.). Ballfields, tennis and pickleball courts, etc., are more than luxuries; they are important recreational (and hence healthy) options. Organized recreational opportunities are very important–especially in locations where weather becomes a factor (think Minnesota, North Dakota, etc.). Low-cost cultural opportunities are also extremely useful for promoting a healthy lifestyle and camaraderie.
Finally, cities with easy access to healthy food (supermarkets, farmers’ markets, etc.) are vitally important. Cities with vast food deserts (that only supply fast food) should be avoided.
Since health and wealth are both long-term investments, what are some effective strategies for convincing people to invest more in their health today?
Perhaps the key is not to feel pressured to do everything (the fear of missing out) but to let your healthy habits develop over time. I think mental health is the biggest healthcare concern for the next decade. Think of your own well-being at this moment. Are you happy? How do you feel after a long walk, a contemplative moment, or listening to a favorite song? Everyone already knows what they enjoy…the question is whether to focus on it or let external forces pull you away. The stress of daily living will eventually cause health problems unless you take action now. Try different approaches to see what may trigger a positive response: a simple walk, engaging in sports, or reading in the library…Perhaps the best advice is to remind folks that investing in your health is NOT work. It’s building yourself a future of opportunities with immediate rewards today.
What tips do you have for a person looking to embrace a more healthier lifestyle while on a budget?
See above. Walk, bike, listen to music, read, find others with similar interests. Keep in touch with family and friends. Check out your local library and recreation department for meetings and events.
What measures can local authorities undertake in order to improve local healthcare systems?
Think of the physical AND mental health of your citizenry. Offer opportunities for group activities, e.g., cultural events that can bring people together. Communicate healthy lifestyle recommendations wherever possible (schools, libraries, billboards, rec centers, religious facilities, etc.). Incentivize healthcare providers to join your community by announcing your desire to improve the health of the city. Give these providers a voice and role to play to influence better healthcare.
What are some ways for local authorities to create healthier cities?
Sidewalks (with good lighting for nighttime), bike paths, no-or low-cost group activities (mahjongg, chess, cards, movies, cultural events, etc.). Design recreational options for all skill levels, both indoors and out. Promote food as medicine with farmers’ markets and easily accessible supermarkets. Remember, mental health is as important as physical health, especially in cities that can overwhelm individuals. Make sure you address both needs.