How shared-use trails boost home value and wellness

By Judy Craig, Realtor®

The Craig Group

Credit: Kimley-Horn

In today's real estate market since the Covid pandemic, homeowners and buyers are increasingly recognizing the benefits of living near recreational amenities. Among these, shared-use trails stand out not only for promoting a healthy lifestyle but also for their positive impact on property values.

📈 Boosting Property Values

Multiple studies have demonstrated a correlation between proximity to trails and increased home values:

• General Increase: Homes located near trails and greenways often see property values rise by an average of 3–5%, with some areas experiencing increases up to 15%.

  
  

• Specific Findings:

  • In San Antonio, Texas, neighborhoods with nearby trails observed a 2% increase in house prices, while those adjacent to greenbelt-surrounded trails saw a 5% premium.

  • A study in southwestern Ohio found that each foot closer to the Little Miami Scenic Trail added approximately $7 to a home's value, indicating a significant premium for properties adjacent to the trail.

  • Research on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail revealed that from 2008 to 2014, assessed property values within 500 feet of the trail increased by $1 billion, highlighting the substantial economic impact of well-integrated urban trails

🌳 Enhancing Quality of Life

Beyond monetary value, trails contribute to the overall quality of life in neighborhoods:

• Recreational Opportunities: Trails provide residents with safe accessible spaces for walking, jogging, and cycling, promoting healthier lifestyles.

• Community Connectivity: They serve as conduits connecting different parts of a city, fostering a sense of community and facilitating social interactions.

• Environmental Benefits: By encouraging non-motorized transportation, trails help reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.

🔒Addressing Concerns

While some homeowners express concerns about potential issues such as increased foot traffic or privacy, studies indicate that:

• Crime Rates: There is no significant correlation between the presence of trails and increased crime in surrounding areas.

  
  

• Design and Maintenance: Properly designed and well-maintained trails can mitigate potential nuisances, ensuring they are assets rather than liabilities to nearby properties

🏡 Conclusion

Investing in or residing near a shared-use trail offers more than just recreational benefits; it can enhance property values and contribute to a higher quality of life. As urban planning continues to prioritize sustainable and community-friendly infrastructure, the presence of trails will likely remain a valuable asset in the real estate landscape.