Florida's Most 'Sustainable Suburb' - Coral Gables Is Crowned As having The Most Eco-Friendly Vibes

However, some places are better suited for green living than others. While studies often focus on the greenest cities, Solar Insure, a solar and battery warranty provider, turned its attention to the suburbs--the epicenter of residential life--to uncover where sustainable lifestyles truly flourish.

Solar Insure conducted a nationwide survey of 3,000 participants, asking them to name the ‘green’ suburbs and neighborhoods they’d most like to move to for an eco-friendly lifestyle. From neighborhoods championing renewable energy to those excelling in community recycling programs and urban gardens, the results revealed America’s top eco-conscious suburban havens. Here are the top 10:

#1 Coral Gables, Florida
Adjacent to Miami, Coral Gables in the top spot emphasizes eco-friendly urban planning with green building codes, extensive parks, and a focus on water conservation. The city encourages the use of public transportation and bike paths, reducing the need for cars. Coral Gables also promotes sustainable landscaping and tree preservation, creating a scenic, eco-conscious environment for its residents. The iconic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables certainly gives off an eco friendly vibe with it's lush landscaping and vast open space.

#2 Kailua, Hawaii
Kailua has embraced sustainability through initiatives such as promoting local agriculture, preserving natural resources, and encouraging low-impact tourism. Residents benefit from biking and walking trails, as well as community-supported agriculture. Kailua’s approach combines eco-conscious urban planning with efforts to maintain the unique beauty of Hawaii’s landscape.

#3 Santa Monica, California
With its Climate Action & Adaptation Plan, Santa Monica aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The city promotes water conservation, waste reduction, and the use of renewable energy sources, including solar power. Residents have access to curbside composting, bike-sharing programs, and green building incentives, making Santa Monica a model of sustainable urban living.

#4 Weston, Florida
Located near Fort Lauderdale, Weston has prioritized sustainable development, with parks, nature preserves, and numerous trails that allow residents to connect with nature. The suburb encourages energy-efficient construction, water conservation efforts, and community recycling programs. Weston’s dedication to preserving its natural surroundings and fostering a green lifestyle makes it an attractive option for sustainable suburban living.

#5 Hilo, Hawaii
Known for its commitment to environmental stewardship, Hilo focuses on renewable energy projects, including geothermal and solar power. The community also supports local food production through farmers’ markets and urban agriculture initiatives, which help reduce the environmental impact of food transportation. Hilo exemplifies sustainable living on Hawaii’s Big Island.

#6 Brooklyn (Prospect Park Area), New York
This New York City borough has integrated green infrastructure, bike lanes, and eco-friendly public transit options. The Prospect Park area emphasizes sustainable urban living with energy-efficient buildings, community gardens, and waste reduction programs.

#7 Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Located near Charleston, Mount Pleasant promotes sustainability through green Infrastructure, recycling programs, and the preservation of natural landscapes. The town’s parks, bike trails, and local farmers’ markets offer residents a balanced, eco-conscious suburban environment.

#8 Berkeley, California
With deep environmental roots, Berkeley continues to champion green initiatives. The city has invested heavily in renewable energy, waste reduction programs, and urban agriculture. Local community gardens, composting facilities, and policies encouraging solar panel installations have helped Berkeley foster a community-oriented approach to sustainability.

#9 Knoxville (Sequoyah Hills), Tennessee
Sequoyah Hills in Knoxville emphasizes sustainability with green spaces, bike-friendly roads, and eco-friendly building practices. The neighborhood’s parks and proximity to the river provide a scenic, environmentally conscious lifestyle.

#10 The Woodlands, Texas
The Woodlands rounding up the top ten is a master-planned community with an emphasis on green spaces, water conservation, and energy-efficient homes. Walking trails, parks, and a strong recycling program make this suburb a leading example of sustainable suburban.

Two 'other' Florida suburbs/neighborhoods emerged among the most coveted in the country for a green lifestyle:

#11 Baldwin Park (Orlando)
Baldwin Park is a master-planned community in Orlando known for its walkable streets, energy-efficient homes, and extensive green spaces. By integrating residential and commercial areas, Baldwin Park reduces the need for car travel, promoting a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle. The community also includes sustainable landscaping and water conservation efforts, making it a model for eco-conscious living.

#18 Haile Plantation (Gainesville)
Haile Plantation, an unincorporated community and New Urbanist planned development, combines the charm of a small town with sustainable living practices. With parks, trails, and preserved natural landscapes, the community encourages outdoor recreation and a connection to nature. The neighborhood is known for energy-efficient homes and locally focused businesses, which contribute to a reduced carbon footprint and foster a sense of community.

“Our survey highlights the innovative ways suburban communities across the nation are embracing sustainability,” says Ara Agopian, Founder & CEO of Solar Insure. “From green Infrastructure to renewable energy, these neighborhoods are paving the way for a future where eco-friendly living is accessible to everyone.”