2024 Ranking Reveals America's Top Cities for Vegans
- WalletHub released its 2024 rankings of the best cities for vegans and vegetarians in the U.S.
- Los Angeles has been named the top city, dethroning Portland, which now ranks third.
- The rankings are based on 17 metrics, highlighting the growing popularity and accessibility of plant-based options.
In a recent report by WalletHub, Los Angeles has emerged as the leading city for vegans and vegetarians in 2024, marking a significant shift in the rankings. This change comes after Portland held the title for five consecutive years. The analysis considered 17 key metrics, including the availability of affordable vegan options, the cost of vegetarian groceries, and the presence of vegan festivals, among others. Los Angeles excelled particularly in the number of highly-rated restaurants offering vegan dishes. Orlando, Florida, made a notable leap to second place, up from third in 2023. The city was recognized for its surprisingly low grocery costs and a good selection of restaurants catering to plant-based diets. Meanwhile, Portland, despite losing its top position, remains a strong contender, ranking third and sharing the highest percentage of restaurants with vegan options alongside St. Petersburg and Washington, D.C. The rankings reflect a growing trend towards plant-based eating in urban areas, with cities like Miami, Atlanta, San Francisco, and Las Vegas also noted for their abundance of salad shops. This shift indicates an increasing demand for vegetarian and vegan options, driven by health, environmental, and ethical considerations. As World Vegetarian Day approaches on October 1, these rankings highlight the evolving landscape of food choices in America, showcasing cities that are leading the way in accommodating the needs of vegans and vegetarians.