With some Internet Listing Services and property websites now including a community’s walk score, its important to understand just what this means and how it impacts the marketability of the community.
There is even an app that potential renters can download that allows them to find apartments in their desired area based on walk score.
What is a Walk Score? A Walk Score measure the walkability of any address. Walk Score analyzes hundreds of walking routes to nearby amenities. Points are awarded based on the distance to amenities in each category. Amenities within a 5-minute walk (.25 miles) are given maximum points. A function is used to give points to more distant amenities, with no points given after a 30-minute walk.
Walk Score also measures pedestrian friendliness by analyzing population density and road metrics such as block length and intersection density. Data sources include Google, Education.com, Open Street Map, the U.S. Census, Localeze, and places added by the Walk Score user community. Scores are listed from 0-100.
| Score | Description | Details |
| 90-100 | Walker’s Paradise | Daily errands do not require a car. |
| 70-89 | Very Walkable | Most errands can be accomplished on foot |
| 50-69 | Somewhat Walkable | Some errands can be accomplished on foot |
| 25-49 | Car-Dependent | Most errands require a car |
| 0-24 | Car-Dependent | Almost all errands require a car |
Research suggests that a high Walk Score is becoming more desirable for today’s renter.
A recent study conducted within Greystar revealed that the walkability of the area was the number one neighborhood feature of residents across the country.
Savvy apartment owners with walkable communities are sure to include their Walk Score in their marketing materials.
Curious what the Walk Score is for your home or apartment community? Find out instantly at:
https://www.walkscore.com/score/
Learn more about Walk Scores at: https://www.walkscore.com/ .