America’s 15 Most Accessible Cities

These cities are the easiest to navigate for people in wheelchairs or with mobility challenges.

1 minute read

March 15, 2024, 7:00 AM PDT

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Close-up of blue and white wheelchair ramp sign with arrow pointing right.

parinya / Adobe Stock

In an article for Yahoo Finance, Laiba Immad compiles a list of the 15 most wheelchair-accessible cities in the United States. “From comprehensive infrastructure improvements to inclusive public transportation systems, these cities prioritize accessibility to enhance the quality of life for all residents and visitors.”

According to the article, “around 3.6 million individuals over the age of 15 use a wheelchair in the US.”

Orlando, Florida comes in at number one, in part because of high accessibility levels at its theme parks. “Additionally, Orlando boasts a robust healthcare system and an accessible bus system called Lynx, contributing to its disability-friendly reputation. The city’s warm climate and comprehensive healthcare facilities further enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities.” Seattle, Chicago, Albuquerque, and New Orleans round out the top five.

Thursday, March 14, 2024 in Yahoo Finance

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Cover CM Credits, Earn Certificates, Push Your Career Forward

Logo for Planetizen Federal Action Tracker with black and white image of U.S. Capitol with water ripple overlay.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

June 11, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Metrorail train pulling into newly opened subterranean station in Washington, D.C. with crowd on platform taking photos.

Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”

The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).

June 2, 2025 - The Hill

Large crowd on street in San Francisco, California during Oktoberfest festival.

The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns

In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.

June 2, 2025 - Robbie Silver

Color-coded map of labor & delivery departments and losses in United States.

The States Losing Rural Delivery Rooms at an Alarming Pace

In some states, as few as 9% of rural hospitals still deliver babies. As a result, rising pre-term births, no adequate pre-term care and "harrowing" close calls are a growing reality.

June 15 - Maine Morning Star

Street scene in Kathmandu, Nepal with yellow minibuses and other traffic.

The Small South Asian Republic Going all in on EVs

Thanks to one simple policy change less than five years ago, 65% of new cars in this Himalayan country are now electric.

June 15 - Fast Company

Bike lane in Washington D.C. protected by low concrete barriers.

DC Backpedals on Bike Lane Protection, Swaps Barriers for Paint

Citing aesthetic concerns, the city is removing the concrete barriers and flexposts that once separated Arizona Avenue cyclists from motor vehicles.

June 15 - The Washington Post