Tallahassee is being rated as one of the South’s Best cities, according to the lifestyle magazine Southern Living. It’s the first time the city has gotten the nod.

Southern Living’s March Issue lists Tallahassee among its top 10 southern cities. The area is ninth on the list, above Austin, Texas. This is the third year the magazine has done a ranking of Southern cities. The results are based on user surveys.

"From the many ecotourism opportunities to our robust educational community, it’s no surprise that Tallahassee is one of Southern Living’s Top 10 Best Cities,” Mayor John Dailey said in a statement released by Leon County. “The people, however, are the heart of our community and they are what makes Tallahassee such a charming and special place.”

Southern Living is aimed at readers in the South and has a reach over 10 million people through its print and online platforms. More than 65,000 readers cast votes for top picks in destinations, restaurants, hotels, and more.

Tallahassee’s restaurants, distance to the Gulf of Mexico and its outdoor culture were part of the magazine’s highlights.

“You don’t end up on Southern Living’s Best Cities overnight,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “To be one of the nation’s premiere Southern cities takes the commitment of local leaders, businesses, and citizens in creating the special community we all share. With this recognition, we have yet another reason to be proud of Leon County and Tallahassee.”

Southern Living Magazine “South’s Best Cities” 2019

Charleston, South Carolina Savannah, Georgia New Orleans, Louisiana Nashville, Tennessee Asheville, North Carolina Atlanta, Georgia Greenville, South Carolina Wilmington, North Carolina Tallahassee, Florida Austin, Texas

The issue will be out March 22.

