For the second year in a row, AARP has ranked Arlington as the most livable large community in the country. The AARP Livability Index scores communities across the country on factors such as housing costs and accessibility, transportation options, air and water quality, and health care.
Arlington scored highly on the list of large communities (population 100,000 to 499,999) for its access to grocery stores, parks, and libraries. It was also highly rated for its walkability and the safety and convenience of transportation options and the fact that residents have easy access to exercise opportunities. Alexandria was No. 2 spot in the large community category (population of 100,000 to 499,999).
Falls Church ranked No. 2 for small communities with populations between 5,000 and 24,999. It ranked highly for the overall population’s health and satisfaction with health care options. The area also scored highly for opportunities for civic involvement and access to cultural arts and entertainment.
AARP rated Fairfax County No. 5 for very large populations (more than 500,000). The index noted the county’s access to grocery stores, farmers markets, and parks and its diversity of destinations. It also scored highly for access and quality of health care.
AARP notes that several of the top scoring areas have made a commitment to becoming more livable over time and joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. The program encourages cities and towns “to prepare for the rapid aging of the U.S. population by paying increased attention to the environmental, economic, and social factors that influence the health and well-being of older adults.”
Feature image courtesy Nate Hovee/stock.adobe.com
