Charleston just can’t stop winning hearts.
For the fourth straight year, Condé Nast Traveler readers have named the Holy City the nation’s “Best Small City,” reaffirming what locals already know — this place is something special.
Always a Favorite
Charleston edged out Santa Fe, Alexandria, St. Augustine, San Juan, and Savannah in the magazine’s 38th annual Readers’ Choice Awards, which drew more than 757,000 votes from travelers worldwide.
It’s not a new story — the city has ranked in the publication’s top six every year since 1993. Charleston first took the No. 1 spot in 2011, dethroning San Francisco and setting off a new era of Lowcountry love.
Condé Nast split the list into “small city” and “large city” categories in 2015. Since then, Charleston has mostly owned the small-city crown — except for one blip in 2021. This year’s win brings it right back to the top.
More Than a Pretty Place
Tourism remains the heartbeat of the region. The industry brings in over $14 billion a year and more than 7 million visitors, according to a College of Charleston study. Nearly 25 cents of every local dollar can be traced back to those who come for the charm — and keep coming back.
Explore Charleston chairman Dan Battista told the Post & Courier the repeat honor is a “tremendous achievement” in an increasingly competitive travel world.
“This recognition strengthens the region’s legacy,” Battista said, “and proves our ability to stay relevant while offering a truly unique visitor experience.”
Explore Charleston president and CEO Helen Hill also shared with the Post & Courier that the exposure is priceless as travelers plan trips for 2026 and beyond.
“From our vibrant urban core to our beautiful islands,” Hill said, “visitors continue to make meaningful connections with the people and places of this community — and we can never take that for granted.”
The Islands Shine Too
Charleston’s coastal neighbors had their own moment in the spotlight. Kiawah Island ranked No. 2 on Condé Nast’s “Top Islands in the U.S.” list. Resorts like The Sanctuary at Kiawah, The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, and Wild Dunes Resort also landed among the Top Resorts in the South.
And in the city itself? The Charleston Place — currently undergoing a major renovation — took the No. 1 hotel slot, with familiar names like Hotel Bennett, The Dewberry, and Zero George Inn rounding out the top 10.
Still Punching Above Its Weight
Condé Nast summed it up best: Charleston “punches well above its weight,” delivering a rare mix of history, culture, food, and charm.
From its cobblestone streets and waterfront views to the kind of hospitality that lingers long after checkout, Charleston keeps giving visitors something to fall for — again and again.
Because, really, how could you resist the urge to move here?
