Culdesac Tempe is Billed as America’s First Car-Free Neighborhood

In the heart of Tempe, Arizona, an ambitious experiment is thriving: Culdesac Tempe, billed as the first car-free neighborhood in the U.S., is proving that sustainable, walkable living isn’t just a dream.

In other parts of the world, car-free neighborhoods are common, but in vehicle-dependent towns all across America, they’re quite scarce. Leave a major city like New York and Chicago, and your ability to fully live without a car gets harder.

Spread across 17 acres, this innovative development houses around 300 residents in 288 apartments, where cars are swapped for free e-bikes, public transit passes, and pedestrian-friendly streets.

The architectural charm of Culdesac is impossible to miss—white stucco buildings, winding pedestrian paths, and lush courtyards adorned with vibrant public art create a sense of place that feels both modern and timeless.

Designed to combat Arizona’s sweltering heat while fostering human connection, the community is built for interaction, not isolation.

While some were skeptical about ditching their cars, residents now rave about the eco-conscious lifestyle and tight-knit community. With rents starting at $1,300 for studios and $2,700 for three-bedroom units, Culdesac is proving that sustainable living doesn’t have to come at a premium.

Some car-free benefits of living at Culdesac:

As the neighborhood grows, plans for more retail spaces and communal hubs promise an even more dynamic and connected experience. Culdesac Tempe could be a glimpse into the future of urban design in the United States.

All images © copyright Culdesac.

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