The Best Places to Live in the United States if You’re a Bicyclist

Let’s have a look at cities that elevate cycling from a sporting hobby to not just transportation but an intrinsic part of its identity. From dynamic neighborhoods to bustling streets, we delve into unique and often overlooked urban gems, exploring key facets such as bicycle-friendly infrastructure, affordability, weather, economy, cultural richness, culinary delights, and community spirit.

Boulder, Colorado

Nestled beneath the majestic Rockies, Boulder emerges as an urban cyclist’s utopia, adorned with its Platinum-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status. But beyond the allure of mountainous trails and bike lanes, Boulder surprises with a robust and diverse economy. The city’s innovative tech scene and outdoor industry giants create a flourishing job market, ensuring that urban cyclists thrive both on and off the saddle.

Bike network in Boulder, Co

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Enduring harsh winters, Minneapolis emerges as a Platinum-level Bicycle-Friendly Community, offering picturesque trails like the Chain of Lakes. Beyond the bike-friendly infrastructure, Minneapolis boasts an affordable cost of living, making it a hidden gem for cyclists. The city’s cultural offerings and thriving job market contribute to its appeal.

Portland, Oregon

Venturing to the eclectic city of Portland reveals another Platinum-level Bicycle-Friendly Community. Known for its unconventional spirit and artistic neighborhoods, Portland’s cultural richness aligns harmoniously with its commitment to cycling. Then there is the rich history of bicycle culture that makes the city so unique.

Exterior of The Hilt bar in Northeast Portland (photo: Justin Katigbak, Travel Portland)

Tacoma, Washington

While Seattle often takes the spotlight, nearby Tacoma shines as an affordable alternative. With its Bronze-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status and a cost of living that remains reasonable, Tacoma provides a great opportunity for cyclists looking to balance affordability with a high quality of life. The city’s scenic charm also helps. Tacoma, often overshadowed, emerges as a unique gem for the cycling set.

Austin, Texas

In the heart of Texas, Austin not only holds a Bronze-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status but also beckons with a thriving culinary and cultural scene. Austin ensures urban cyclists can enjoy taco trails and barbecue bliss with an incredible cycling network to get to and from all the fun. The city’s unique blend of cycling culture and culture positions it as a beacon for those seeking that perfect balance.

Biking along Austin’s Butler Hike and Bike Trail. (Photo: Nick Simonite)

Washington, D.C.

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., earns its Silver-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status by providing a blend of rich history and political prominence. Beyond the iconic monuments, the city boasts a great job market and economic power. Cyclists can pedal through history while also contributing to the vibrancy of the city’s economic landscape. And, the cycling network is growing quickly and thoughtfully. There is much to appreciate in Washington.

Seattle, Washington

Beyond its Platinum bicycle-friendly status, Seattle stands tall as a tech hub with a flourishing job market. The city’s diverse economy, driven by giants like Amazon and Microsoft, provides ample career opportunities for urban dwellers. With cycling woven into the city’s fabric, Seattle ensures that professionals can pedal to work and play, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of career and cycling pursuits.

Traverse City, Michigan

Along the shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City beckons urban cyclists with its Bronze-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status. Affordability is coupled with lakeside living, making Traverse City a hidden gem for those seeking great trails, city bike lanes and a waterfront lifestyle. Traverse City’s unique blend of affordability and lakeside charm positions it as great option.

Seattle, Washington

Eugene, Oregon

Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Eugene shines with Silver-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status and a commitment to sustainability making it one of the best places to live. Beyond the scenic trails, Eugene fosters a culture of green living. Cyclists can explore not just the Willamette River paths but also a community that thrives on ecological consciousness and affordability.

Bozeman, Montana

Tucked away in the Rockies, Bozeman offers Bronze-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status alongside a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s easy living lifestyle is complemented by the breathtaking mountain views. There are so many outdoorsy options available, but housing is substantially higher than the rest of the state, so keep that in mind.

Providence, Rhode Island

Providence is emerging as a city where cycling meets coastal charm. With a Bronze-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status, affordable living, and a burgeoning arts scene, Providence provides urban cyclists with a unique blend of accessibility and creative energy. Seaside trails, historic architecture, and a diverse culinary landscape make it an appealing destination.

East Bay Bike Path, Providence

The Next 5 Best Places to Live for Urban Cycling

Several cities are emerging as promising destinations as the best places to live for cyclists seeking a perfect blend of infrastructure, affordability, and unique cultural offerings. These are the rising stars:

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga, nestled along the Tennessee River, is making waves with its growing commitment to cycling infrastructure. With an affordable cost of living and a burgeoning arts scene, this Southern gem provides a unique blend of scenic trails and Southern hospitality, making it an up-and-coming destination for urban cyclists.

Boise, Idaho

Boise, Idaho, is rapidly gaining recognition for its Bronze-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status and a burgeoning cycling culture and that’s why we consider it on this list as a great place to live. With an affordable lifestyle and a backdrop of stunning mountain views, Boise offers urban cyclists a unique blend of accessibility and outdoor adventure.

Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines is carving its place on the urban cycling map with a focus on creating a bike-friendly city. With an affordable housing market and a growing culinary scene, this Midwest city offers a unique blend of cycling accessibility and cultural richness.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh, once an industrial hub, is experiencing a revival, including a dedication to cycling infrastructure. With its Bronze-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status, Pittsburgh offers urban cyclists an opportunity to explore historic neighborhoods and scenic riverfront trails. The city’s affordability and commitment to revitalization make it a rising star in the urban cycling landscape.

Pittsburgh

Final Thoughts