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Seattle stands as Washington's most bike-friendly city with a leading Bike Score of 71, according to a 2024 analysis of cycling infrastructure and connectivity. This data-driven guide explores the top ten cities, balancing bikeability with current housing costs to help residents and prospective movers make informed decisions. For home buyers and renters who cycle, a city's Bike Score—a standardized metric from 0-100 that evaluates a location's bicycle-friendliness—is a critical factor alongside median sale and rental prices.
A city's bikeability is measured by its Bike Score, which assesses four key components: the availability of bike lanes, the topography (hilliness), the density of destinations and road connectivity, and the percentage of residents who commute by bicycle. A score of 70-89 is considered "Very Bikeable," where cycling is convenient for most errands. This analysis, using data valid as of January 2024, provides an objective look at where Washington's infrastructure best supports a car-lite lifestyle, which can influence transportation costs and overall quality of life.
Seattle: Bike Score 71 As the state's largest city, Seattle leads with a score of 71, placing it in the "Very Bikeable" category. Neighborhoods like Fremont, Montlake, and Ballard are noted for their cyclist-friendly infrastructure, including dedicated bike lanes. The city's commitment is further evidenced by events like the annual Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic. The median home sale price is $774,125, with a median rent of $1,980.
Walla Walla: Bike Score 62 With a score of 62, Walla Walla offers a more affordable alternative without sacrificing bikeability. The presence of Whitman University and trails like the Mill Creek Trail contribute to a community where many daily needs can be met on two wheels. The median sale price here is significantly lower at $375,000, with median rent at $1,560.
Hazel Dell: Bike Score 60 This Vancouver suburb ranks third with a Bike Score of 60. Cyclists have access to key routes like the Burnt Bridge Creek Trail, which connects to parks and local businesses. The median home price is $475,500, and the median rent is $1,805.
Vancouver: Bike Score 59 Vancouver boasts essential cycling amenities, including bike paths and parks. Key corridors such as Main Street and Columbia Street provide relatively safe and accessible routes for commuters and recreational riders. The housing market shows a median sale price of $450,000 and a median rent of $1,810.
Olympia: Bike Score 59 The state capital ties with Vancouver, offering destinations like Capitol Lake and the Olympia Farmers Market that are easily reachable by bike. The median sale price is $525,000, and the median rent is $1,800.
For those prioritizing cycling, a high Bike Score can signal lower transportation costs and a healthier lifestyle. However, it should be one of several factors in a home-buying or rental decision. Based on our experience assessment, prospective residents should:
Ultimately, the best Washington city for you will balance your cycling needs with your housing budget and lifestyle preferences. The data confirms that options range from the urban center of Seattle to more affordable, trail-rich communities like Walla Walla.
