By Angela Butterfield

Finding the right place to live is important, but when you’ve got a dog, it’s not just about you. Your pup needs walkable neighborhoods, nearby green space, dog-friendly roommates, and ideally a city that loves dogs as much as you do.

Based on a new USA Today ranking of the most dog-friendly U.S. cities, here are the top 10 places that go above and beyond for dog parents—and their canine companions. If you’re relocating with a pet, these spots are worth considering.

1. Flagstaff, Arizona

132 dog-friendly trails | 56 pet-friendly hotels | 39 dog-welcoming restaurants

This mountain town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and their pets. With cool summer temps and scenic trails like the Buffalo Park Loop and Fatman's Loop, Flagstaff is a haven for hiking dogs. You’ll find pet-friendly patios downtown and even breweries that welcome four-legged friends. Bonus: Many rental communities in this area cater to pet owners.

Fun Fact: Approximately 43% of households in Arizona own dogs.1

2. San Luis Obispo, California

9 dog beaches | 42 pet-friendly trails

SLO offers a laid-back coastal lifestyle that’s ideal for active pups. Dogs are welcome at beaches like Avila Dog Beach and off-leash at El Chorro Dog Park. Local wineries and coffee shops often feature dog-friendly patios, and many apartments here offer pet-friendly lease options. Whether you’re living in town or near the coast, you’ll have access to trails, outdoor dining, and ocean breezes for your dog.

Fun Fact: Approximately 40.1% of households in California own dogs.1

3. Santa Barbara, California

57 trails | 29 dog-friendly restaurants | Walkable downtown

Santa Barbara blends Mediterranean charm with serious pet-friendly appeal. From the scenic Douglas Family Preserve to Arroyo Burro Beach (aka "Hendry's Beach", a dog-friendly area), this city offers coastal strolls and sunset views with your pup. Most downtown cafes welcome dogs on their patios, and the area is rich in pet-friendly lodging and rentals.

Fun Fact: Approximately 40.1% of households in California own dogs.1

4. Austin, Texas

94 dog-friendly trails | Dozens of dog parks and events

Keep Austin weird—and wonderfully dog-friendly. With spacious off-leash areas, such as Zilker Park and Red Bud Isle, plus numerous pet-welcoming patios and food trucks, Austin is an ideal destination for dogs that need to burn energy and socialize. You’ll also find dog-friendly coworking spaces, breweries, and even yoga classes. For renters, pet-friendly housing options abound in neighborhoods like South Congress and East Austin.

Fun Fact: Approximately 43.4% of households in Texas own dogs.1

5. Portland, Oregon

171 dog-friendly trails | Hundreds of vet offices and pet boutiques

Portland is known for its eco-conscious attitude and active outdoor scene—and that includes dogs. With miles of trails at Forest Park and dog-centered shops like Hip Hound, this city is perfect for holistic pet parents. Portland is also home to a growing number of dog-friendly apartment buildings, and you’ll find water bowls and treats outside most local shops.

Fun Fact: Approximately 37.8% of households in Oregon own dogs.1

6. San Diego, California

10 dog-friendly beaches | 100+ hiking trails | Laid-back coastal life

Dog Beach in Ocean Beach is iconic, but San Diego also boasts Fiesta Island and Del Mar Dog Beach for year-round fun. With mild weather and walkable neighborhoods like North Park and Hillcrest, you’ll have plenty of dog parks, trails, and breweries to explore. Many apartments here allow pets, and even have dog-washing stations and on-site pet parks.

Fun Fact: Approximately 40.1% of households in California own dogs.1

7. Naples, Florida

8 dog beaches | 45 dog-friendly restaurants | 27 pet-welcoming accommodations

Luxury meets pet love in Naples. Not only does this city offer white sand beaches where your pup can splash around, but you’ll also find elegant pet-friendly hotels and high-end restaurants with dog menus. Cambier Park and Rover Run Dog Park are popular spots for locals, and nearby coastal trails let you stroll in style with your furry friend.

Fun Fact: Approximately 39.8% of households in Florida own dogs.1

8. Nashville, Tennessee

Tons of dog parks | Walkable downtown | Music City vibes

From Centennial Dog Park to Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Nashville makes it easy to live an active, dog-friendly lifestyle. Music City is home to hundreds of pet-welcoming patios and even bars that cater to dog owners, such as the off-leash dog park bar, BarkPark. If you're hunting for a roommate or rental in this city, many new developments welcome dogs—some even with pet spas!

Fun Fact: Approximately 47% of households in Tennessee own dogs.1

9. Denver, Colorado

55 trails | Year-round outdoor fun | Urban-meets-nature

Denver offers the best of both worlds—bustling city life and access to the Rocky Mountains. Cherry Creek State Park’s off-leash area is a local favorite, and trails like Mount Falcon make weekend hikes a breeze. With dog-friendly patios, breweries, and walkable neighborhoods, Denver’s also home to many dog-lovers renting in shared spaces or condos with ample green space nearby.

Fun Fact: Approximately 47.2% of households in Colorado own dogs.1

10. Key West, Florida

122 dog-friendly restaurants | Coastal charm | Laid-back lifestyle

This sunny escape is one of the most welcoming cities for dining out with your pup—offering more dog-friendly restaurants than any other U.S. city. With beach paths, oceanfront pet-friendly rentals, and open-air patios everywhere, Key West is a top pick for small dog lovers and those seeking a relaxed, tropical pace of life. It’s also incredibly walkable, which means more sniffing, strolling, and tail-wagging for your pup.

Fun Fact: Approximately 39.8% of households in Florida own dogs.1

Ready to make the move?

Roommates.com lets you find housing and a roommate who loves dogs as much as you do. Use our pet-friendly filters to search listings and connect with fellow dog parents.

Looking for more advice? Explore our Roommates.com LABS, featuring the top pet-friendly cities as determined by our users. A Full House: Pets in a Shared Living Space for helpful tips on roommate harmony and pup-approved living. If you’re interested in the best dog breeds for apartment dwelling, check out Best 15 Dog Breeds for Apartment Renters and Dwellers.

Whether it’s hiking trails, sandy paws, or a big backyard, there’s a city out there waiting for you and your dog. Let Roommates.com help you find your next best move—furry friend included.

1American Veterinary Medical Association