Inverness, Florida, has taken the top spot in the 2026 USA Today Readers’ Choice 10 Best Small Towns in the South contest. The city council celebrated this achievement on Tuesday, March 5, 2026, after finishing third in 2025. Polls close on March 30, 2026.
Mayor Bob Plaisted read a letter from Robert Sharp, former chairman, president and CEO of AAA Auto Club South, praising the city’s leadership for its continued rise. Sharp credited City Manager Eric C. Williams and his staff for their outstanding work. Finalists were selected by a panel of eight travel editors, writers and photographers from across the country, and readers then voted to determine the rankings.
The city’s historic courthouse turned museum in the center of town was one of its features listed in the contest. Inverness is holding strong at No. 1, though the outcome will depend on continued public participation. City Manager Eric Williams encouraged residents to keep voting to secure the city’s position.
Some of the key factors that contributed to Inverness’ ranking include its small-town charm, historic landmarks, and community events. The city has been working to address its challenges and improve its amenities, which has helped it climb the rankings in the USA Today poll.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
