["The Milbank Quarterly, Volume 104, Issue 1, Page 171-197, March 2026. ", "\n\n\n\nPolicy Points\n\nHealth disparities are a symptom of population‐level problems, and interventions to improve health equity should be at the neighborhood level.\nWe argue that the most effective and pragmatic prescription for improving population health is what we call Universal Basic Neighborhoods (UBN).\nWe offer a Model Legislation Template, which can help citizens and cities raise to legal status the right of neighborhoods to be UBN.\nAttaining UBN status can transform neighborhoods into healthier, more equitable, vibrant communities.\n\n\n\nContext\nThe United States lags far behind other comparable nations on health indicators. To promote population health in cities, we argue for the right to Universal Basic Neighborhoods (UBN).\n\n\nMethods\nWe define UBN as “the minimally acceptable mix of neighborhood health assets for residents to flourish in quality and length of life.” This article explores the foundational needs for such a concept and creates a specific set of domains, factors, and metrics for assessing UBN status. We apply this concept and its measurement to two neighborhoods in Louisville, Kentucky, assessing both health assets and liabilities. In doing so, we locate pathways for interventions.\n\n\nFindings\nWe found that the Crescent Hill neighborhood can be considered a UBN. The Russell neighborhood's extensive set of liabilities overwhelms its assets when we consider health outcomes.\n\n\nConclusions\nIf we want to create UBN, we need a means. We thus outline a model legislation template for ensuring the right to UBN and improving urban neighborhood health.\n\n"]