The physical activity is increasingly recognized as essential for public health, yet its relationship with the built environment remains unexplored in the Indian context. The present study provides an understanding of how the built environment provides opportunities and creates obstacles to the individual regarding physical activity. This paper attempts a detailed eye-view on the role of social capital dimensions, lifestyle, and other socio-economic and demographic variables in the participation in physical activity. This study includes a cross-sectional survey of 450 households from five different housing typologies (i.e. high-rise buildings, old colonies, chawls, slums, and slum rehabilitated buildings) of Greater Mumbai City. These particular housing typologies have been chosen because of their diverse built forms and their socio-economic aspects. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire and were subjected to descriptive and inferential analysis. The study uses the self-rated physical activeness of the respondents within 30 days preceding the date of the survey. Findings reveal that 82% of household heads live in proximity to open spaces or playgrounds, but only 63% utilize them, primarily accessed by walking (97%). Among those accessing open spaces, 87% are physically active, and 61% report engaging in daily physical activity. Notably, residents of old colonies show the highest average duration of daily physical activity (76 min). Social capital dimensions—such as motivation from others, supportive personal relationships, and family encouragement—positively influence participation in physical activity. Additionally, non-addiction to substances and low prevalence of chronic illness are associated with higher levels of physical activity.