Key takeaways
- Homes.com adds livability scores to listings to give buyers clearer insight into neighborhoods beyond photos, using four metrics: walk, bike, transit and sound (each scored 0 to 100).
- Walk, bike and transit scores show how easily residents can get around without a car, with simple ranges from “Car-dependent” to “Paradise,” while the sound score reflects how quiet or noisy a property is.
- Scores appear directly on listing pages between the Transit and Property Details sections, though some may show “N/A” if data is unavailable.
Traditional listings show what a home looks like, but they often don’t capture what day-to-day life feels like in a neighborhood.
Homes.com’s livability scores are designed to close that gap, helping buyers quickly evaluate convenience, accessibility and overall comfort before visiting a property.
Walk score
The walk score measures how easy it is to complete daily errands on foot, like grocery shopping, dining or running to the post office. Higher scores typically indicate denser areas with nearby amenities, while lower scores are more common in suburbs or rural communities where driving is required.
- 90–100: Walker’s paradise (most errands can be done on foot)
- 70–89: Very walkable (most errands can be done on foot)
- 50–69: Somewhat walkable (some errands can be done on foot)
- 0–49: Car-dependent (most errands require a vehicle)
Bike score
The bike score evaluates how friendly a neighborhood is for cycling, factoring in infrastructure such as bike lanes, terrain and connectivity. Higher scores suggest safer, more practical biking conditions for commuting or recreation.
- 90–100: Biker’s paradise (ideal for daily biking)
- 70–89: Very bikeable (good infrastructure with some limits)
- 50–69: Bikeable (basic infrastructure available)
- 0–49: Somewhat bikeable (limited or challenging conditions)
Transit score
The transit score reflects how accessible public transportation options are, including buses, trains and light rail. It also considers frequency and convenience, helping buyers assess whether they can rely on transit instead of driving.
- 90–100: Rider’s paradise (frequent, reliable transit nearby)
- 70–89: Excellent transit (strong access with some gaps)
- 50–69: Good transit (moderate access)
- 25–49: Some transit (limited service)
- 0–24: Minimal transit (few or no options)
Sound score
The sound score measures noise levels around a property, factoring in elements like traffic, airports and nearby activity. Unlike the other scores, higher numbers indicate quieter environments, while lower scores point to louder, busier surroundings.
Where to find the scores
Buyers can view all four livability scores directly on listing pages, located between the Transit and Property Details sections. Not every listing will include all four metrics — some may appear as “N/A” if there isn’t enough data available for a reliable score.
Why they matter
Together, these scores provide a more complete picture of a neighborhood, helping buyers compare areas based on lifestyle fit, not just price or home features. Whether prioritizing walkability, access to transit or a quiet setting, these tools can make it easier to narrow down the right location before scheduling a tour.
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