When buying a home, it’s easy to get caught up in the number of bedrooms or the condition of the kitchen. But savvy buyers and sellers know that value isn’t just within the four walls of a house—it’s also in what’s right outside. Walkability, or how easy it is to get around a neighbourhood on foot, is becoming one of the most important factors in determining property value. And if you’re working with a real estate agent, it’s something they’ll likely talk about early in the process.
Walkability refers to how accessible day-to-day needs are without relying on a car. Can you get to the grocery store, transit stop, school, or coffee shop on foot? Is the area pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and safe crossings? More and more homebuyers are asking these questions—and the answers can have a big impact on price. A home’s value today is shaped by convenience, lifestyle, and community. And for many people, walkability delivers all three.
What Is Walkability and How Is It Measured?
Walkability isn’t a vague concept—it can be measured. Tools like Walk Score and local municipal walkability indexes assign scores to properties based on their proximity to amenities. These tools consider how far key destinations are, whether sidewalks are available, and how safe and pleasant the walk is. A high walkability score typically means that a resident can meet most of their daily needs within a short walk from home.
Walkability takes into account more than just distance. The design of a neighbourhood matters too. Are there benches, trees, and well-lit streets? Are intersections safe? Are there frequent crosswalks and traffic-calming measures? These are all factors that determine how easy and enjoyable it is to walk in a given area—and they often contribute to how much people are willing to pay to live there.
Why Walkability Matters to Buyers and Renters
For today’s buyers and renters, walkability is often high on the wish list. Many are drawn to neighbourhoods where they can run errands, grab a coffee, or meet friends without having to drive. The appeal isn’t just convenience—it’s about lifestyle. Living in a walkable area often feels more vibrant, social, and connected.
Different demographics value walkability for different reasons. Younger professionals might want to be near cafes, gyms, and transit. Retirees may appreciate being close to parks, pharmacies, or medical centres. Families with kids might prioritize schools and libraries. Regardless of the reason, walkability offers a sense of independence and community. That’s a big deal in real estate, and it shows in how properties are marketed and priced.
The Link Between Walkability and Property Value
Multiple studies have shown that homes in walkable neighbourhoods tend to sell for more. Properties located near shops, parks, and public transit often attract a premium. This doesn’t mean every walkable home is automatically more expensive—but all else being equal, walkability can be a deciding factor for buyers.
It’s important to note that a property’s value may depend on the location of the home in relation to these walkable features. For example, a house just a block from a high-traffic commercial strip may benefit from convenience, but too much foot traffic or noise could be a turn off. This is why it’s important to walk the neighbourhood yourself, not just rely on a map or Walk Score. And of course, lookout for things to avoid around the neighbourhood—like busy intersections with no crosswalks, poorly lit alleys, or lack of green space. These can hurt a property’s value despite an otherwise decent walkability score.
Economic and Environmental Impacts
There’s also a bigger picture to walkability. Neighbourhoods where people can walk tend to support more small businesses. When residents shop and dine locally, that money stays in the community. Walkable neighbourhoods also encourage less driving, which means fewer emissions, better air quality, and less traffic congestion.
This environmental benefit isn’t just good for the planet—it’s also good for property values. Areas with cleaner air, less noise, and well-maintained streets are more desirable. Buyers increasingly look for homes in areas that reflect their values, and environmental sustainability is one of them. Walkable neighbourhoods support those goals while creating more resilient, people-centred communities.
Walkability and Urban Development Trends
Urban planners and developers have taken notice. Across Canada, cities are investing in infrastructure that supports walking: wider sidewalks, traffic-calming measures, dedicated pedestrian zones, and mixed-use developments. The goal is to create 15-minute neighbourhoods—places where everything you need is within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.
This shift in urban design is good news for property owners in already walkable areas. As cities improve infrastructure and add services nearby, property values tend to rise. For buyers, it’s worth considering not just what the neighbourhood offers today, but what’s planned for the future. Investing in a walkable location with upcoming development can lead to strong long-term returns.
What Buyers and Investors Should Consider
If you’re buying a home or looking for an investment property, take a close look at the neighbourhood’s walkability. Don’t just rely on a score—explore the area yourself. Are the sidewalks in good condition? Is the lighting adequate at night? Are there safe routes to transit or schools? All of these factors matter.
Think about your lifestyle needs and what you value most. Then consider how walkability aligns with those needs. And if you’re working with a real estate agent, be clear about what walkable features are non-negotiable for you. They can help you find a home in a neighbourhood that fits both your day-to-day routine and your long-term goals.
Walking the Talk: Why It Pays to Think Pedestrian
In a world that’s becoming more connected—and more conscious—walkability is no longer a bonus feature. It’s a real estate game-changer. From health and community to convenience and value, the benefits of living in a walkable neighbourhood are hard to ignore.
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or investing, look beyond the property line. Take a stroll, chat with locals, and pay attention to what the area offers. In the end, a walkable community may not just improve your lifestyle—it might boost your property’s value too.
