35 Most Pet-Friendly Cities in the U.S.
Pets are part of the family, and we want them to have happy and healthy lives, too. Just like us, they need access to nature, doctors, good food and fun ways to pass the time. About 85 million families have pets in their homes across the United States, but not every city offers the same pet benefits. Some have lower expenses while others have infinite pet-friendly experiences.
The experts at WalletHub compiled a ton of data and broke down their findings into three main categories — pet budget, pet health and wellness, and outdoor pet-friendliness — to determine the country's most pet-friendly cities. Whether you’re looking to move or simply want to take your pet on a road trip, read on to learn more about the amenities the 35 most pet-friendly cities have to offer our beloved animals.
35. Louisville, Kentucky
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 81
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 54
Pet Budget Rank: 16
Total Score: 49.52
How It Ranks
Kentucky is famous for horse racing, bourbon, fried chicken and bluegrass music. But it is also a decent place for pet owners, with a low cost of living and low pet costs.
Some pet-friendly places worth checking out include the Louisville Riverwalk, Louisville Waterfront Park and Mega Cavern, where you can tour man-made caves. Take a ghost tour, check out the Bernheim Arboretum and stop by the Three Dog Bakery for treats after such a fun-filled day.
34. Plano, Texas
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 50
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 5
Pet Budget Rank: 84
Total Score: 49.70
How It Ranks
While Plano ranked low for pet budget and outdoor pet-friendliness — even earning a dismal No. 94 spot for having the fewest dog parks per capita, its pet health and wellness rank kept it in the top 35.
That means it had a good combination of veterinarians, trainers, pet businesses, dog-friendly restaurants and average home square footage, to name a few of the key metrics for this category.
33. Fort Worth, Texas
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 90
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 21
Pet Budget Rank: 38
Total Score: 50.14
How It Ranks
This Texas city had average to good rankings for pet budget and health options. Fort Worth is the kind of city that has more than a handful of options of veterinarians, caretakers and pet stores, but not so many options that you won't have clear favorites quickly.
While the city didn't do terribly well with outdoor opportunities, we found several cool activities for pets. Check out the Pet Paradise dog park, Martin House Brewing Company, Coyote Drive-In and Fort Worth's Art Worth Scavenger Hunt Tour.
32. Lincoln, Nebraska
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 38
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 90
Pet Budget Rank: 6
Total Score: 50.18
How It Ranks
The cost of living, home prices and pet budgets are all low in Lincoln. Pets will also love all the time they get with their humans, as the city has an outstanding work/life balance, according to Business Insider.
More than 50 dog-friendly restaurants in Lincoln include The Mill Historic Haymarket, The Parthenon and Granite City Food & Brewery. Check out the MoPac and Oak Creek trails for hikes and Oak Lake and Rickman's Run dog parks.
31. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 31
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 37
Pet Budget Rank: 51
Total Score: 50.20
How It Ranks
Colorado Springs has a variety of outdoor options for pets that make it a worthwhile home as well as a destination for pets who travel well. The city also has a variety of pet-focused businesses, ensuring humans will have access to whatever wellness services and products their pets need.
The city is known for being reasonably pricey in general, though, and its pet costs are no different. Cool activities worth checking out include the Manitou Cliff Dwellings Museum, Pikes Peak, Seven Falls and Pub Dog, which has a 3,000-square-foot, off-leash area.
30. Fort Wayne, Indiana
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 93
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 63
Pet Budget Rank: 4
Total Score: 50.31
How It Ranks
Fort Wayne is great for various household budgets and ties at No. 2 for the lowest dog insurance premiums with another Indiana hotspot, Indianapolis. There aren't too many pet-focused businesses in Fort Wayne. For example, you'll only find a handful of doggie daycares.
There are, though, a ton of dog-friendly restaurants, cafes, bars and breweries. Also worth checking out is the fairly new Camp Canine, a 60,000-square-foot grassy, fenced play space.
29. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 15
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 78
Pet Budget Rank: 25
Total Score: 50.52
How It Ranks
Give your pet a plethora of outdoor activity options, and watch your budget in Albuquerque. There is a seemingly endless list of parks, including many specifically created for dogs, including Los Altos, Rio Grande Triangle and Sante Fe Village.
Flying Star is a local chain serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and is always dog-friendly. You can also grab a pint with your pup at Marble Brewery or play tourist and take the ABQ Trolley around town.
28. Pittsburgh
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 27
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 47
Pet Budget Rank: 42
Total Score: 50.78
How It Ranks
The Steel City is also famous for its 446 bridges, making it an excellent option for pet owners looking for a walk with a view. The city has some additional great outdoor spaces for pets, including Point State Park, Frick Park and P.N.C. Park, where you can catch a baseball game.
Pittsburgh's Lucky Paws Resort seems like the ideal location for pets with its indoor-outdoor park and massive swimming pool.
27. Phoenix
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 20
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 39
Pet Budget Rank: 50
Total Score: 50.89
How It Ranks
Phoenix had average to good scores across the board, making this city a solid choice for pet owners. The outdoor options are substantial in Phoenix and include dog trails with waterfalls, caves and glorious mountain views.
The city also has many patios where pets are welcome, including O.H.S.O. Brewery, Postino Wine Cafe and Cibo Pizzeria. Dog parks are also plentiful here — favorites include Papago, Steele Indian and Cosmo.
26. St. Petersburg, Florida
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 13
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 36
Pet Budget Rank: 56
Total Score: 50.93
How It Ranks
This smaller Florida city has gorgeous beaches, which explains its high outdoor score, as well as year-round sunshine — perfect for dining al fresco at one of the city’s many pet-friendly restaurants or breweries. Also, don’t forget to check out The Don CeSar for gourmet room service for both cats and dogs.
Due to its smaller size, St. Pete doesn't have countless pet businesses, but its sister city, Tampa, is a short drive for the most enthusiastic pet owners.
25. Raleigh, North Carolina
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 80
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 15
Pet Budget Rank: 40
Total Score: 51.35
How It Ranks
Your pets will live healthy lives in Raleigh, which ranked No. 15 in the pet health and wellness department. Despite not doing too hot in the outdoor category, Raleigh has various pet-friendly activity options, including Hawthorne Bark Park, Sal's Branch Trail at William B. Umstead State Park and Inspiration Trail.
For an enjoyable day for dog and human, check out Woofinwaggle, a fitness center and dog spa in North Raleigh.
24. Denver
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 44
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 10
Pet Budget Rank: 69
Total Score: 51.42
How It Ranks
The Mile High City has countless hikes and outdoor adventures for pets in the nearby Rockies, but it also has plenty of walking trails and dog parks for those of us not aiming to climb a mountain every weekend.
More importantly, the city scored very well for its overall health and wellness options. Denverites like to have options when it comes to veterinarians, caretakers, businesses and pet-friendly restaurants.
23. Columbus, Ohio
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 52
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 82
Pet Budget Rank: 3
Total Score: 51.43
How It Ranks
While Columbus isn't bursting at the seams with pet businesses, it offers plenty of options for pet owners. Plus, it is one of the most budget-friendly cities in the country.
This Ohio city has countless dog-friendly patios where bowls of water stay filled and where humans can grab a beer, meal or cocktail. When heading outside, locals love Schiller Park for picnics, walks and playtime with their pets.
22. San Antonio
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 76
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 43
Pet Budget Rank: 10
Total Score: 51.67
How It Ranks
Ranking No. 10 for pet budget, you better believe San Antonio is an affordable city for pet owners. It is also filled with fun stuff to do. Explore the Mexican culture in the city at Market Square, where you can enjoy live music, grab some food and do some shopping — all outdoors.
Some hikes that are recommended for pets include Lytle's Loop Trail and Friedrich Wilderness Park. Dogs are also welcome at hockey and basketball games at least once a year. And well-behaved pups can even join walking ghost tours, which are quite popular in San Antonio.
21. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 17
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 67
Pet Budget Rank: 24
Total Score: 51.74
How It Ranks
Similar to the other Oklahoma cities on this list, Tulsa had some average to good rankings that, when put together, mean a quality life for pets. Plus, Tulsa works for a variety of household budgets. In addition to plenty of off-leash dog parks, Tulsa has some fancy parks that welcome dogs as well, including the Tulsa Garden Center and Gilcrease Museum Gardens.
Grab a beer with your pup at Bruhouse, and if you find yourself in the mood for Italian food, Ti Amo also welcomes dogs. Turkey Mountain and Riverside are both favorite trails for locals if you're in the mood for a hike.
20. Oklahoma City
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 33
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 66
Pet Budget Rank: 15
Total Score: 51.79
How It Ranks
You can provide a wonderful life for your pet at affordable prices in Oklahoma City. While the city didn't rank in the top 10 for anything specific, it did have average to good scores across the board. There are lots of dog parks and botanical gardens where you can bring your furry companion.
After that, you can head to one of the city's many dog-friendly restaurants, like Louie's Grill & Bar or Picasso Cafe. You can also grab a cold craft drink and gourmet corn dog with your pup at Anchor Down Draft and Dog.
19. Corpus Christi, Texas
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 95
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 62
Pet Budget Rank: 2
Total Score: 51.94
How It Ranks
Corpus Christi came in No. 1 for lowest veterinary care costs and No. 3 for overall pet budget. The city has several bars and restaurants that are dog-friendly like Scuttlebutt's Seafood Bar and Grill, Back Porch Bar and Lorelei Brewing Company, to name a few.
You can take your pup on the Dolphin Connection boat ride as well if you're looking for an exciting water adventure. If your best friend is even more adventurous, you can book a Water Dog Floating Yoga class for you two.
18. Houston
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 89
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 29
Pet Budget Rank: 13
Total Score: 52.18
How It Ranks
The Space City isn't going to break the bank for pet owners, and it also has a variety of health and wellness opportunities for pets. You'll find dog-friendly patios throughout the city, including ones at The Barking Pig and Barnaby's Café as well as at Saint Dane's and Porch Swing Club.
Houston’s pet parks are tremendous, but they also have pet spas! Send your best friend off for a day of pampering.
17. Nashville, Tennessee
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 46
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 57
Pet Budget Rank: 7
Total Score: 52.51
How It Ranks
The Music City is incredibly affordable for pet owners, and for guests, the city has countless pet-friendly lodging options, including some very swanky hotels.
Other noteworthy mentions in Nashville include the Riverfront Park Dog Park, Peg Leg Porker restaurant and Tennessee Brew Works — all known for their dog-friendly spaces.
16. Miami
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 43
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 7
Pet Budget Rank: 64
Total Score: 52.60
How It Ranks
Gorgeous views of turquoise waters sound like the perfect feature for a city. Sadly, Miami is still very car-focused, so the Florida city didn't score as high for outdoor pet-friendliness as you'd expect.
While not every beach welcomes dogs, there are plenty in Miami for you and your best friend to explore. Miami also has countless health and wellness options for pets, including a plethora of veterinarians and dog walkers. The city ties No. 1 for most pet businesses and most veterinarians per capita.
15. Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 68
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 34
Pet Budget Rank: 8
Total Score: 53.62
How It Ranks
While Lexington is famous for its horse farms and thoroughbred racetracks, it’s also pretty great for other pets, too. Several dog-friendly restaurants like Charlie Brown's Restaurant and Lounge and breweries like Blue Stallion invite pups.
The city also has various dog parks, dog-friendly churches and pet-friendly wineries. Lexington also ties for No. 1 as having the most veterinarians per capita.
14. Portland, Oregon
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 5
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 16
Pet Budget Rank: 59
Total Score: 53.97
How It Ranks
Similar to its Pacific Northwest sister city Seattle, Portland loves its green space. The Oregon city has more than 10,000 acres of natural areas and parks across the city. It also ties for No. 1 as the city with the most dog parks per capita.
Plus, like many West Coast cities, Portland takes its health and wellness seriously, which isn't any different when it comes to pets.
13. Boise, Idaho
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 3
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 52
Pet Budget Rank: 31
Total Score: 54.59
How It Ranks
Boise, Idaho has a population of about 234,576 and is the 98th largest city in the United States. So it makes sense that there aren't as many pet businesses, shops and caretakers as one would find in larger cities.
But what Boise lacks in retail and health care options, it makes up for with parks, rivers, vineyards and other outdoor activities. Boise came in No. 3 for outdoor pet-friendliness and tied in the No. 1 spot for most dog parks per capita.
12. Scottsdale, Arizona
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 6
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 3
Pet Budget Rank: 86
Total Score: 54.62
How It Ranks
Your pet will have all the things it needs for health and wellness in Scottsdale, Arizona, as the city ranks No. 3 for it.
The city is known for having various dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants and pet-friendly hotels as well as a plethora of hikes, trails and businesses that welcome pets.
11. Cincinnati, Ohio
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 19
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 41
Pet Budget Rank: 18
Total Score: 54.80
How It Ranks
The Queen City tied for the No. 1 spot for most veterinarians per capita. Cincinnati also ranked in the top 20 cities for pet budget.
Some of the things that helped Cincinnati secure its outdoor pet-friendliness ranking include the Smale Riverfront Park, the riverfront and Bellevue Beach Park. The city also has several bars and breweries that love dogs.
10. San Diego
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 34
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 1
Pet Budget Rank: 76
Total Score: 55.10
How It Ranks
Rolling hills, year-round sunshine and the Pacific Ocean make San Diego a beautiful home for most, and you better believe that includes pets. Dogs even have a variety of beaches dedicated just for them in San Diego.
The city ranked No. 1 for pet health and wellness, and it tied for the No. 1 spot for most pet businesses and most dog-friendly restaurants per capita. San Diego also ranked No. 2 for most animal shelters per capita. It’s no surprise it made it into the top 10 best cities for pets.
9. Birmingham, Alabama
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 18
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 22
Pet Budget Rank: 36
Total Score: 55.32
How It Ranks
While Birmingham will cost pet owners a bit of money, the city has an array of animal trainers, caretakers, daycares and pet businesses.
Birmingham also has various pet-friendly outdoor activities, including state parks, preserves, caverns, state parks, hikes and tons of dog parks.
8. New Orleans
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 26
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 27
Pet Budget Rank: 20
Total Score: 55.38
How It Ranks
While the Big Easy didn't have any top 10 rankings in the major categories, New Orleans did have good averages in all three areas.
New Orleans, especially in its popular French Quarter, is known for having several dog-friendly restaurants, bars and businesses. The city also has various dog parks, including Nola City Bark, Crescent Park Dog Run and Wisner Dog Run.
7. Atlanta
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 35
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 12
Pet Budget Rank: 30
Total Score: 55.93
How It Ranks
The health and wellness of your pet will be secure in Atlanta. The city came in No. 5 for the lowest dog insurance premium and for most animal shelters per capita. The number of veterinarians, doggie daycares and pet businesses also helped the city score a decent ranking for pet health and wellness.
Though there are more parks outside of the city, Atlanta could increase its outdoor pet-friendliness rank by adding more parkland within city limits.
6. St. Louis
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 16
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 20
Pet Budget Rank: 28
Total Score: 56.04
How It Ranks
The Gateway to the West has the most animal shelters per capita in the United States. The major city along the Mississippi River came in at No. 16 for outdoor pet-friendliness thanks to its number of dog parks, walk score, dog-friendly trails, dog shows and parkland in the city.
St. Louis also isn't terribly expensive for pet owners and has plenty of veterinarians, caretakers, meetup groups and pet businesses.
5. Seattle
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 8
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 9
Pet Budget Rank: 46
Total Score: 57.35
How It Ranks
Even though Seattle is famous for its rain, the city rarely gets heavy downpours, but instead, gentle mists make taking dogs for walks pretty easy year-round. The city is also tied for No. 1 for most dog-friendly restaurants per capita.
Like most things in this Pacific Northwest city, Seattle didn't do well in the budget department, but the Emerald City ranked high for outdoor pet-friendliness and pet health and wellness. There are countless ways for dogs to enjoy Seattle with endless lakes, mountains and a 6,414-acre park system.
4. Orlando, Florida
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 24
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 4
Pet Budget Rank: 45
Total Score: 58.78
How It Ranks
Like many of the top 10 cities, Orlando has superb weather for pets. The city is also tied for No. 1 for most dog-friendly restaurants per capita, making it super easy for dogs to enjoy a meal with their humans.
Orlando ranked high for pet health and wellness due to its high number of pet businesses, pet-friendliness rental market, animal trainers, vets, pet caretakers and more. There is a whole team of pet experts available in Orlando!
3. Las Vegas
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 1
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 17
Pet Budget Rank: 32
Total Score: 59.19
How It Ranks
Dry, nearly year-long heat makes the weather in Las Vegas ideal for dogs who like to play outside, hike and walk with their humans. The city is also tied at No. 1 for most dog parks per capita.
The city's parkland, dog-friendly trails and dog shows per capita also helped Las Vegas land its rank of No. 1 for outdoor pet-friendliness.
2. Austin, Texas
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 73
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 2
Pet Budget Rank: 19
Total Score: 59.61
How It Ranks
While Austin, Texas, has great weather, that is not what landed it such a high spot on this list.
Austin tied for No. 1 for most dog-friendly restaurants per capita, making it super easy for man's best friend to get out and about in America’s “weirdest” city. Austin also came in No. 5 for most animal shelters per capita.
1. Tampa, Florida
Outdoor Pet-Friendliness Rank: 4
Pet Health & Wellness Rank: 11
Pet Budget Rank: 26
Total Score: 59.83
How It Ranks
With sunshine, beaches and state parks, it is no surprise that Tampa is a great place to have a dog. Tampa had a high outdoor pet-friendliness score thanks to its abundances of great weather, dog parks and dog-friendly scores.
The city is also great for all pets, though, tying in the No. 1 spot for most veterinarians per capita.