New Jersey Residents Average Over 6,600 Daily Steps, Study Finds

The State of Walking Report by WeWard reveals activity levels across the U.S., with Newark residents clocking in at a respectable daily step count.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:06pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of people walking on a path through a wooded area, with soft, blurred shapes and pools of warm, golden light creating a serene, atmospheric scene.New Jersey's parks and trails offer residents ample opportunities to get outside and stay active, though gender and age gaps in daily step counts remain.Newark Today

A new study by WeWard has shed light on the average daily step counts of residents in different U.S. cities, including Newark, New Jersey. The report found that Newark residents take an average of 6,603 steps per day, which is close to the benchmark of nearly 7,000 steps considered a healthy target. The study also revealed that women logged 28% fewer daily steps than men on average, and older adults outpaced Gen Z by 15% more daily steps, potentially linked to differences in screen time.

Why it matters

Understanding the physical activity levels of New Jersey residents can help inform public health initiatives and encourage more people to get outside and take advantage of the state's abundant parks, trails, and natural spaces for walking and hiking. The data provides a snapshot of the state's overall fitness and wellness, which is especially relevant as the weather warms up and more people look to enjoy the outdoors.

The details

The WeWard State of Walking Report analyzed step data from users across the United States to determine the average daily step counts in different cities. New York residents were found to be the most active, taking an average of 6,947 steps per day. Newark, New Jersey residents came in at 6,603 steps on average. The report also noted gender and age differences, with women logging 28% fewer daily steps than men and older adults outpacing Gen Z by 15% more steps, potentially due to differences in screen time and other lifestyle factors.

  • The WeWard State of Walking Report was published in 2026.

The players

WeWard

A company that provides a fitness tracking app and conducted the study on average daily step counts across the United States.

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What’s next

The report's findings could prompt local officials and public health organizations in New Jersey to explore ways to encourage more physical activity, especially among women and younger residents, through initiatives that promote the state's abundant outdoor spaces for walking and hiking.

The takeaway

The WeWard study provides valuable insights into the physical activity levels of New Jersey residents, highlighting areas for potential improvement while also showcasing the state's potential as a hub for walking, hiking, and other outdoor pursuits that can improve overall health and wellness.