Asheville has once again earned national recognition, this time ranking #3 on Southern Living's list of the Best Cities in the South for 2026. The annual rankings, based on votes from more than 17,000 readers, highlight the destinations that capture the spirit, culture, and charm of the South.
For locals, the recognition likely comes as no surprise. Asheville continues to attract visitors and new residents alike with its thriving arts scene, vibrant culinary culture, access to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and unmistakable sense of character.
But what makes this year's ranking especially exciting is the company Asheville keeps—and the major Southern cities it outranked.
Southern Living readers selected the following cities as the very best places to visit in the region:
Charleston claimed the top spot for the tenth year in a row thanks to its historic architecture, waterfront views, and celebrated dining scene. Savannah followed closely behind with its iconic oak-lined squares, historic charm, and vibrant arts culture.
Landing in the #3 position, Asheville stands proudly alongside these iconic Southern destinations, proving that mountain towns can rival coastal cities when it comes to culture, food, and unforgettable experiences.
Perhaps even more impressive is the list of well-known cities that Asheville placed ahead of in this year's rankings. The mountain city outperformed several large and highly visited destinations across the South.
Cities ranked below Asheville include:
These are cities known for music, food, sports, entertainment, and major tourism—but Asheville's unique blend of creativity, natural beauty, and welcoming community continues to elevate it into the top tier of Southern destinations.
Ask anyone who has spent time in Asheville and you'll quickly hear a long list of reasons why the city stands out. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a lifestyle that blends outdoor adventure, artistic energy, and culinary excellence.
The city is widely known for its:
Neighborhoods throughout Asheville each bring their own personality—from the creativity of the River Arts District to the walkable charm of downtown.
This balance of culture, nature, and community is what makes Asheville such a memorable destination for visitors and such a beloved place to call home.
Southern Living also noted Asheville's resilience following the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024. The city has continued to recover and rebuild, welcoming travelers back with the same warmth, creativity, and energy that define the community.
Today, visitors can once again enjoy everything that makes Asheville unique—from gallery hopping and live music to exploring the mountains and discovering new restaurants and cocktail bars across the city.
Recognition like this often sparks renewed interest in a city, and Asheville has been steadily growing in popularity for years. Many people who first visit the area quickly realize that Asheville offers more than just a great vacation—it offers a lifestyle.
Residents enjoy:
For those looking to relocate or invest in property, Asheville continues to stand out as one of the most desirable cities in the Southeast.
Being ranked among the top Southern cities is a reflection of what locals have known for years—Asheville and the surrounding communities of Western North Carolina offer something truly special.
From the vibrant culture of Asheville to the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this region continues to attract people who are searching for a place that balances lifestyle, nature, and community.
At DRG Homes & Land, our team lives and works right here in Western North Carolina. With deep local roots and a shared commitment to serving our community, we help buyers, sellers, and investors navigate the market with insight and care.
Whether you're considering a move to Asheville, exploring land in the mountains, or simply curious about the lifestyle that makes this region so beloved, our team would be happy to help you discover what makes Western North Carolina such an incredible place to call home.
Southern Living: South's Best Cities 2026 Rankings
Keep reading other bits of knowledge from our team.
Have a question about this article or want to learn more?
