Reader's Digest Names Asheville, North Carolina, the Nicest Place in America for 2025

NEW YORK, Sept. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Reader's Digest is proud to announce the winner of the 2025 Nicest Places in America, a national search for places defined by kindness, community spirit, and respect. This year, Asheville, North Carolina, has earned the top honor for its extraordinary resilience and unwavering commitment to community, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

For its ninth year, the Nicest Places initiative called on readers across the country to nominate towns, businesses, and neighborhoods that exemplify goodwill. Asheville stood out after receiving a record number of nominations highlighting how its residents came together following the devastating hurricane in September 2024. The community's response, from grassroots relief efforts to neighbors helping neighbors, showcased a powerful culture of self-reliance and mutual aid that defines the city.

Beyond its compassionate response to crisis, Asheville is celebrated for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, stunning Blue Ridge Mountain scenery, and an atmosphere of openness and tolerance. The city's unique character is built on a foundation of strong social connections, which proved to be its greatest asset during its most challenging time. This story of unity and strength deeply resonated with the judges and editors.

"The Nicest Places initiative is about discovering and celebrating the kindness that binds our communities," said Eric Gillin, Chief Brand Officer at Reader's Digest. "Asheville's story is a profound example of how human connection can triumph over adversity. We are honored to spotlight a community that not only faced an unprecedented disaster but emerged with a stronger, more compassionate spirit."

The selection process involved a distinguished panel of judges who reviewed the submissions. This year's panel included: Al Roker, Weatherman and anchor on NBC's Today show; Mitch Albom, philanthropist and bestselling author; Sandra Clark, CEO of StoryCorps; Mónica Guzmán, author and senior fellow at Braver Angels; Bonnie Kintzer, former CEO of Trusted Media Brands; and Greg Hudnall, who nominated last year's winning place, Provo, UT.

The 2025 finalists, also recognized for their exceptional kindness, include the Peru Amateur Circus in Peru, IN; the city of Monroe, LA; Semicolon Books in Chicago, IL; and the city of Medina, OH.

About Reader's Digest

Reader's Digest, a TMB brand, simplifies and enriches consumers' lives by discovering and expertly selecting the most interesting ideas, stories, experiences, and products in health, home, family, food, finance, and humor. Reader's Digest is available online at RD.com, in print, and on digital platforms.

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SOURCE Reader's Digest