Florida's Pet-Friendly Cities Recognized
WalletHub Ranks Three Florida Cities, Led by Tampa at No. 2, Among Nation's Most Pet-Friendly
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Three Florida cities have landed in the top 10 of WalletHub's 2026 ranking of the most pet-friendly cities in America, according to Naples Daily News. Tampa came in at No. 2 overall out of 100 of the largest U.S. cities. The ranking was based on factors like veterinarian costs, walkability, and the number of pet-friendly businesses.
The rankings come as pet spending hits record levels. The American Pet Products Association says Americans spent $158 billion on their pets in 2025 — and are expected to spend even more in 2026, according to Tallahassee Democrat.
Tampa Lands Near the Very Top of the List
Tampa ranked No. 2 in the entire country for pet friendliness, according to TC Palm. WalletHub scored cities on a wide range of measures. Those included the cost of vet care, how easy it is to walk your pet, and how many pet businesses operate in the area.
Two other Florida cities also cracked the top 10, making the Sunshine State a standout for pet owners. Florida's warm weather, outdoor culture, and large population likely help drive its strong showing across multiple cities.
Scottsdale Tops the List With Pet-Friendly Rentals
Scottsdale, Arizona, claimed the No. 1 spot. The city has a high number of pet businesses and dog-friendly shops per capita, according to News-Journal Online. Nearly 98% of rental listings in Scottsdale allow pets — one of the highest rates in the country.
That rental access matters a lot for pet owners. Finding housing that allows animals is one of the biggest challenges for people with pets in large U.S. cities.
Americans Are Spending More on Pets Than Ever Before
Pet spending in the U.S. hit $158 billion in 2025, according to the American Pet Products Association, as reported by Jacksonville. That number is expected to climb even higher in 2026. More people own pets now than at any point in American history.
The surge in spending reflects how central pets have become to American households. Cities that make it easy and affordable to own a pet are increasingly seen as more desirable places to live.
How WalletHub Scored All 100 Cities
WalletHub looked at 100 of the largest U.S. cities for this ranking. Scoring covered two main areas: pet care and costs, and pet-friendliness of the city itself. Vet costs, pet insurance prices, and access to pet services all played a role, according to Naples Daily News.
Walkability was also a key factor. Cities with more parks, trails, and sidewalks scored higher. Florida's outdoor-friendly environment likely gave Tampa and the other Florida cities a strong boost in that category.
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