Study: New Orleans ranks among the best U.S. cities for runners in 2017

Since New Orleans has a wide selection of outdoor running spots, we guess it’s no coincidence that the city ranked No. 7 among the best U.S. cities for runners.

In a study conducted by Zumper, researchers evaluated weather, quantity of green space, average temperature, running events, and rent affordability across the United States. New Orleans placed among the best 35 cities in this study.

Based on the research, 25.7 percent of land in New Orleans is parkland, which is the highest percentage of green space in any of the 35 recognized cities. That totals to 71.3 park acres per 1,000 residents. Other highlights include the city’s total of 53 organized races in 2017, and an average temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Zumper researchers also evaluated the median rent for one-bedroom units in New Orleans, which averaged $1,310/month. While New Orleans ranks No. 17 as the metro area with the most expensive rent in the United States, it underwent a 13 percent drop in rent since December of 2016.

San Diego, San Antonio, Houston, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Austin scored among the highest in Zumper’s national study.

• The 35 Best Cities for Runners in America [Zumper]
• Rent in the New Orleans metro area has fallen over 13 percent since last December [Curbed NOLA]
• The best biking, jogging, and walking paths in New Orleans [Curbed NOLA]