The 12 Greenest Cities in America, According to a New Study
A recent study compared the 100 most populated U.S. cities, looking at energy sources, transportation, the environment, and lifestyle policies. So why should you care about these green cities? Living in one of these cities can improve your health and make it simpler to do your part for the planet. With sustainable laws, good water quality, access to local produce, and less reliance on cars, it’s a win-win.
Living in green cities my whole life, it’s easy to take it for granted… until you visit one that isn’t. On a recent visit to a highly-populated city in Mexico, I noticed how the smog and poor air quality affected my breathing and even my skin. As much as I love the more open and airy parts of Mexico, I couldn’t wait to leave this polluted town.
In 2023, the U.S. produced more than eight times the solar energy it did in 2014. Electric vehicles and battery storage are also taking off, making clean energy a big part of our everyday lives. All 50 states are making strides to go green. 52% of Americans agree that protecting the environment should come before economic growth, and honestly, that number should be even higher!
Let’s see what the top 12 greenest cities in America are, according to a recent study by WalletHub.
San Diego, California
For three years now, San Diego proudly holds the title of America’s “greenest” city. About 40% of its energy comes from renewable sources, and the city is aiming for 100% renewable energy with programs like 100RE and a zero-waste plan. They’re also shifting public transit to electric vehicles.
San Diego’s urban green spaces, including parks and green roofs, act as the city’s lungs, providing fresh air and supporting wildlife. The Southern California city has also invested in public transportation, bike-sharing, and walkable streets, so residents are encouraged to go green every day.
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., takes environmental accountability seriously, making it simple for residents and visitors to embrace sustainable practices. As part of the C40 initiative, a global network of cities tackling climate change, D.C. ranks as the second greenest city in the U.S. It’s no surprise given its bold climate action efforts.
With 697 parks and green spaces, many managed by the National Park Service, DC is perfect for walking between destinations. The city is also home to farm-to-table restaurants and LEED-certified buildings with composting, recycling, and water-saving programs.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu’s tropical climate, picture-perfect scenery, and beaches attract tourists from around the world, but its focus on sustainability is just as impressive. Since 2016, the city’s resilience plan has increased access to renewable energy and clean transportation.
Hawaii’s capital has the most farmers markets per capita—75.4 times more than Arlington, Texas! As the third-greenest city in America, it boasts low greenhouse gas emissions and ranks among the best for air quality.
San Francisco, California
The Golden City boasts the highest walk score, 4.2 times higher than Chesapeake, Virginia. But that’s just one reason it ranks among the top four greenest cities. San Francisco is committed to 100% renewable electricity by 2030 and leads the nation in energy efficiency and cutting greenhouse gas emissions, according to the 2024 ACEEE City Clean Energy Scorecard.
The impressive 78% recycling rate showcases San Francisco as a sustainability leader. Renewable energy accounts for 84% of its total energy consumption, and the public transit system is excellent, making it environmentally friendly to get around.
San Jose, California
Climbing one rank this year, San Jose is here to show how investing in green spaces, parks, and trees can protect residents from extreme heat—especially in marginalized neighborhoods. The San Jose Environmental Services Department drives Climate Smart, San Jose, handling garbage and recycling, watershed protection, and sustainability initiatives while also improving the San Jose-Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility.
The city has an exciting vision: getting 100% of its electrical power from clean sources and making sure all public fleet vehicles use alternative fuels. San Jose also plans to plant 100,000 new trees and switch all streetlights to smart, zero-emission lighting.
Seattle, Washington
Sustainable Seattle is the goal. The city stands out as a top tech and innovation hub in the U.S. and ranks among the world’s most environmentally friendly cities thanks to its commitment to waste management and renewable energy. This Washington state hub offers incentives for building owners to improve energy efficiency. Plus, electric vehicles are a priority, with over 1,500 public charging stations available.
Seattle invests in public transportation like light rail and buses, aiming for 50% of trips to be made by walking, biking, or using public transit by 2030. The city also plans to recycle 60% of its waste by 2025.
Oakland, California
A successful green city brings residents local produce, drinkable tap water, clean public transit, and plans for less waste. Oakland, ranked as the seventh greenest city in America, truly embraces this vision.
The City of Oakland is dedicated to sustainability. The 2030 Equitable Climate Action Plan (ECAP) outlines how to decarbonize buildings and transportation and build community resilience against climate change. Plus, the city council has set an ambitious goal for carbon neutrality by 2045.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is no stranger to being called America’s top environmentally friendly city. It has over 92,000 acres of green spaces and a connected network of trails and parks, making it perfect for walking and biking. Did you know that Forest Park, covering 5,000 acres, is one of the most extensive urban forests in the U.S. and even outsizes New York’s Central Park?
Oregon has dramatically increased its solar energy production, boasting a 23-fold rise in the past decade. Some say it’s the ideal moment for the state to pursue its goal of 100% clean and renewable energy with federal tax credits available.
Fremont, California
Fremont is not just one of the happiest cities–it’s also among the greenest. It’s a great place to enjoy nature with its rolling hills and abundant green spaces. But there’s even more to its eco-friendly reputation.
To enhance its reputation, Fremont has launched “Renewable 100” as the default energy plan for residents and businesses. The goal is to lower emissions 55% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. Alongside this, the city is also focusing on integrating zero-emission vehicles into its transportation system.
Irvine, California
Preserved open space is one of Irvine’s biggest treasures. The city takes pride in conserving nature like Limestone Canyon and Bommer Canyon. You can enjoy more than 360 miles of well-kept hiking and biking trails with over 270 parks and access to thousands of acres of protected land.
With such a strong reputation, Irvine is focused on boosting energy efficiency and increasing renewable energy use while cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Through its slogan “100% Participation, 100% Irvine,” the city encourages residents, businesses, and schools to work together to achieve these goals, aiming to reduce energy use in buildings by 30%.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
The Twin Cities are committed to achieving 100% renewable electricity for all city operations by 2030. Spanning 146.91 square kilometers, Minneapolis boasts 41% green space and 36% tree coverage.
Even more impressive, the city has created two Green Zones—one in North Minneapolis and another in South Minneapolis. These zones focus on improving community health and fostering economic development through environmentally friendly initiatives. They specifically target areas facing the impacts of pollution and social challenges, making a positive difference where it’s needed most.
Denver, Colorado
Denver has just earned the title of the 12th greenest city, and that’s largely due to its impressive number of green buildings and eco-friendly coworking spaces. It’s clear that Denver takes its commitment to the environment seriously with fresh air, blue skies, and stunning natural beauty.
The city has high recycling participation and focuses on using renewable energy, reducing waste, and promoting green transportation. The Greenprint Denver program targets energy efficiency and cleaner air, water, and land. Of course, Denver International Airport is also on board, working hard to lower its carbon footprint!
Source: WalletHub
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