Trust for Public Land released its 2026 ParkScore® index, which ranks the park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities. Washington, DC, and Irvine, California, retained their positions atop the ParkScore® index, and several Texas cities made major upward moves due to new park openings and increased investment.

This year’s ParkScore® index and accompanying report, The Undeniable ROI of Parks, make a clear case: as demand for nature, recreation, and community space grows, parks are emerging as one of the smartest investments cities can make. The report highlights how parks provide multiple, overlapping benefits and can generate at least three dollars in economic value for every dollar invested.

Trust for Public Land is working to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors, including ensuring that everyone has access to a quality park within a 10-minute walk from home. The ParkScore index is a vital tool for helping cities improve access and public health outcomes with smart park investments.