Ranking the 10 Most Pet-Loving Cities Around the U.S.
In the United States, the bond between humans and their pets has never been stronger. As of 2024, approximately 45.5% of U.S. households own dogs, and 32.1% have cats, totaling 89.7 million dogs and 73.8 million cats nationwide.
However, not all cities are equally pet-friendly. Many factors play a major role, such as veterinary care availability, pet-friendly housing, and overall community support. To help you understand better, this guide talks about the most pet-loving cities in the U.S. and what makes them worth considering to move with your pet.
15. Albuquerque, NM
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Albuquerque is the ultimate playground for pets, with hundreds of miles of trails that allow off-leash fun for dogs. Pets here get more exercise than their owners. Plus, the city also features pet-friendly patios everywhere, and the lower cost of living makes pet care more affordable than in many major cities.
14. Dallas, TX
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Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the pet perks and bigger love. Dallas offers a number of off-leash parks, countless dog-friendly patios, and even pet yoga classes (yes, that’s a thing). The city also hosts dozens of adoption events and has a strong animal welfare community. For a metropolis, it’s surprisingly welcoming for furry companions.
13. Charlotte, NC
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Let your fur buddy enjoy some southern hospitality in Charlotte. It’s not unusual to see water bowls outside businesses as if every storefront doubles as a pet lounge. There are tons of pet-friendly restaurants, dog parks, and an impressive network of top-rated veterinarians. Pets in Charlotte live a sweet southern life.
12. San Diego, CA
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San Diego’s sun-kissed beaches are excellent for dogs too. Places like Ocean Beach Dog Beach and Fiesta Island Off-Leash Park make it a dream come true for water-loving pups. The city also has one of the highest vet-to-pet ratios, so you know your pets get the best quality care.
11. Minneapolis, MN
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Minneapolis is known for its harsh winters, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a pet-friendly city. In fact, this city has some of the best indoor pet parks that are a lifesaver when the temperatures drop. The city also has a high number of rescue organizations and top-tier vet services.
10. Tampa, FL
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This city enjoys sunshine and wagging tails around the year. The pet scene is also as warm as its weather. Tampa has multiple dog beaches, including the popular Davis Islands Dog Beach. Many local restaurants and bars allow dogs inside (because who wants to drink alone?). And if you thought pet care in Tampa would dig a hole in your pocket, you’d be happy to know pet care is also very affordable and easily accessible.
9. Denver, CO
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Denver is where pets and owners go on adventures together. They’re hiking buddies, skiing partners, and road trip copilots. With nearly 40 off-leash parks and endless mountain trails, it’s an ideal city for active pets. Denver also has one of the highest pet-friendly apartment rates, so you can easily find a home for yourself and your furry sidekick.
8. Atlanta, GA
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One thing you just can’t settle on about Atlanta is its traffic. But when it comes to pets, this city offers a smooth experience. Atlanta has 8 official off-leash dog parks, including the iconic Piedmont Dog Park that’s spread over a three-acre fenced land. Many offices allow pets, and local events like Woofstock bring together thousands of pet lovers every year.
7. St. Louis, MO
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St. Louis is highly accommodating for pet owners and has a high percentage of rental properties that allow pets. This statistic reflects a strong pet-friendly housing market. Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., provides endless space for long walks. Vet services are also top-tier and affordable.
6. Portland, OR
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It wouldn’t be wrong to say that this city loves its dogs more than it loves its people. Portland has one of the highest number of dog parks per capita in the country. These pets are welcomed at many workplaces, and businesses often have treats waiting at the door. Pet wellness is a priority, with strong holistic pet care that includes acupuncture and even dog spas.
5. Seattle, WA
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For pet owners, Seattle is a place where they’re taken seriously. The city has more dogs than children. Public transportation welcomes pets, and Marymoor Park offers a massive 40-acre off-leash area. The city also has some of the best-rated veterinary hospitals in the country.
4. Phoenix, AZ
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Phoenix may be hot, but its pet scene is even hotter. The city features several off-leash dog parks, numerous dog-friendly hiking trails, and a wide selection of pet-friendly housing. It’s an amazing city built for animal lovers. Apart from top-notch veterinary care, the city’s many restaurants also have pet-friendly patios.
3. Chicago, IL
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Finding pet-friendly housing in a major city can be a headache, but not in Chicago. The city has one of the highest concentrations of pet-friendly apartments, plus several dog beaches along Lake Michigan. Chicago pets are indeed living a good life with access to endless parks, high-quality vets, and dog-friendly cafes.
2. Austin, TX
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Austin has a ‘no-kill, all-love pet culture.’ This means that animals in shelters are given a second chance at life. Pets here enjoy dozens of off-leash parks and even dog-friendly paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake. If pets could vote, Austin would probably be their favorite city.
1. Scottsdale, AZ
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At Scottsdale, almost every restaurant is pet-friendly, but what really makes this city stand out is that it even has pet-friendly resorts. The city’s pet services industry is booming, with luxury pet spas, dog bakeries, and world-class veterinary care. Low pet homelessness rates and a strong adoption culture make it the best place in America to be a pet.