A recent study by the American College of Sports Medicine ranked the top 50 healthiest cities in the US. The Charlotte metro came in at #27, up from #36 last year.
The rankings were based on the group’s American Fitness Index. Factors studied included preventative health behavior, levels of chronic diseases and policies that support physical activity. Areas included in the Charlotte metro were: Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill, NC-SC; Anson County, NC; Cabarrus County, NC; Gaston County, NC; Mecklenburg County, NC; Union County, NC; York County, SC.
While there are areas for improvement – particularly in the percentage of folks in this area that are obese or currently smoking and in the death rate per 100,000 for cardiovascular disease – there are areas where the area is doing well. We beat the national target in areas like acres of parkland per 1,000 inhabitants, farmers’ markets per 1,000,000 inhabitants, and the level of state requirement for physical education. (See Charlotte’s report. See the full report.)
Several initiatives in Charlotte seem to have contributed to this boost in the area’s “healthiness.” The B-cycle program centered around uptown has helped folks up their physical activity. In addition, the revitalization of some of Charlotte’s walkable neighborhoods over the last several years has made it easier for residents to walk to work, for errands and to social activities. Those folks are getting more physical activity in the end, too.
If you’ve read my blog for any time at all, you know walkable neighborhoods hold my love. If you’re looking for a home in a walkable neighborhood, please give me a shout! I’d love to help you find your next home and show you the greatness that exists in these neighborhoods!
