Jul 21, 2025 - News
Portland's gym scene outpaces national average
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Portland has more gyms per 100,000 residents than the average metro area in the country, per government data.
Why it matters: Gyms offer city dwellers a way to get and stay healthy, and can serve as excellent "third places" — a spot to hang out and connect outside home or work.
By the numbers: Portland has 17 gyms for every 100,000 residents, above the national average of 13.6, but well below the top iron-pumping cities.
- The Bridgeport, Connecticut metro keeps it buff with 27.5 gyms for every 100,000 residents, Boston has 20.6 and San Diego has 20.4.
- At the bottom of the list, San Juan (4.3); Lakeland, Florida (6.2); and McAllen, Texas (6.6) have the fewest gyms.
Yes, but: While many places have more gyms per capita than Portland, few boast the exercise opportunities we have, with some of the best city parks in the nation and more outdoor recreation than we could possibly list here.