Thinking about relocating with your furry companion? Or maybe you’re just wondering where pets live large in the U.S.?
This 2025 roundup of pet friendly cities in America reveals the top spots where dogs and cats truly thrive. From walkable streets and spacious parks to pet-welcoming rentals and accessible vet care, these cities have it all.
Some offer off-leash adventures. Others shine with cozy cafés and dog-friendly patios. All of them rank among the best cities for pets this year.
Top 10 Pet Friendly Cities in America
This list is based on a blend of recent data from trusted sources like Walk Score®, ParkScore® by The Trust for Public Land, the KURU Footwear 2024 Dog-Friendly Cities Report, and pet ownership stats from the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association).
These cities stood out for their mix of green space, pet-friendly rentals, walkability, and access to quality pet services.
1. San Francisco, CA
San Francisco scores high across the board, especially in walkability (Walk Score: 89) and park access.
According to The Trust for Public Land, 100% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park. Plus, with dog-friendly beaches like Fort Funston, this city is a year-round win for pets.
2. Denver, CO
Denver continues to impress with its outdoor lifestyle and nearly 5,000 acres of urban parks.
According to the AVMA, over 50% of households in Colorado own a dog. Combine that with its 245+ days of sunshine, and it’s clear why Denver is one of the top US cities for dog owners.
3. Portland, OR
With more than 30 off-leash dog parks, Portland has the most per capita in the U.S., according to Dogster. It’s a haven for dog-friendly urban areas, complete with pet-friendly breweries and hiking trails within city limits.
4. Austin, TX
Austin makes the list for its blend of southern hospitality and progressive pet culture.
Zilker Park, Barton Creek Greenbelt, and numerous patios welcome pups. Plus, a recent study by Extra Space Storage ranks it among the best cities for dogs and cats thanks to its pet-friendly housing options.
5. San Diego, CA
Boasting 266 sunny days per year and standout beaches like Ocean Beach Dog Beach, San Diego is built for four-legged adventures.
According to Zillow, more than 61% of rentals allow pets, well above the national average.
If you’re traveling in summer, don’t leave home without these summer travel essentials every dog owner needs.
6. Seattle, WA
Seattle has more dogs than children, according to local census data. It’s also known for pet-friendly apartment buildings, rain-or-shine walking trails, and a growing number of dog parks.
7. Tampa, FL
Tampa is gaining recognition as one of the most pet inclusive cities in Florida.
According to the KURU Footwear 2024 report, Tampa ranks high in walkability, dog park access, and pet-related services per capita.
8. Boston, MA
Boston combines historical charm with modern-day pet friendly urban living.
With a Walk Score of 83 and over 2,000 acres of parks, it’s ideal for leash-trained city dogs. The city also supports pet owners with inclusive rental policies and clean green spaces.
9. Madison, WI
Madison stands out for affordability and access.
According to The Trust for Public Land, over 93% of residents live near a park. Plus, the cost of veterinary care is among the lowest in the Midwest, making it a smart pick for families with pets.
10. Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix rounds out the list with over 40 dog parks and 300+ sunny days each year. Its trail systems are expanding, and developers are responding with more pet friendly neighborhoods and cooling features for hot paws.
Pet Perks, City Style
These pet-friendly cities in America aren’t just making life easier for pet owners, but they’re building stronger, more inclusive communities.
Whether you’re planning a move or just looking for your next vacation spot, these cities prove pets do make places better.
