Market share of walkable urbanism in office, retail and multifamily product types is growing nationwide in all 30 of the largest U.S. metro areas, at the expense of drivable suburban. Real estate indicators such as rent premiums, absorption and untapped potential of suburban urbanization positively trend toward the continuation of walkable urban development.
Key takeaways include:
- Office, retail and rental multifamily real estate in WalkUPs (significantly walkable urban areas) produces substantial rent premiums.
- The disconnect between supply and demand of housing within city center WalkUPs has contributed to affordability and availability challenges.
- Higher levels of walkable urbanism are positively correlated with increased educational attainment and economic vitality.
- Both the private and public sectors should take note of the proven resilience of walkable urban product and plan accordingly.
