Three Times the Charm: Tallahassee Crowned an "All-America City" Once Again

You might not believe it, but Tallahassee has done it again!

Our hometown of Tallahassee has once again been named one of America’s top cities. Tallahassee has been selected as an “All-America City” for the third time out of thousands of cities, towns, and communities nationwide. The National Civic League announced today, June 29th, at its annual All-America City Conference in Denver, Colorado, that Tallahassee is the 2025 All-America City.

The “All-America City” award is one of the most prestigious awards a city can receive. Presented by the National Civic League, the award is given to only 10 communities per year that exemplify the best practices in cooperation, innovation, and inclusion to create a community of which all citizens can be proud. The application process is highly competitive, with only 10 percent of applicants moving on to be considered for the award.

“This is a big win for Tallahassee and the next evolution of the stellar brand we have built here in Tallahassee,” said Mayor John Dailey. “To do it three times is a testament to how deeply ingrained the spirit of collaboration is across our entire community. We have a team of strong leaders and an engaged community that believes we can and are committed to doing extraordinary things together for our city.”

This year’s winning application showcased three initiatives that have truly put Tallahassee on the map: the Southside Action Plan, the Clean Energy Plan, and our 100+ city parks.

The Southside Action Plan is a community-driven plan actively working to help lift up one of our most historically underserved areas of town. This plan has informed how the City of Tallahassee, private developers, community members, businesses, non-profits, and other organizations are making strides on infrastructure improvements, housing, neighborhood amenities, and beautification because the Southside community spoke up and let their voices be heard.

The Clean Energy Plan is a thoughtful, inclusive, and forward-looking plan that aims to set Tallahassee on a path to 100 percent net clean, renewable energy. What makes this so special is that it’s an action-oriented plan with concrete and measurable steps to get us there, with the full buy-in of our community.

Our 100+ city parks work together to guarantee every person has access to a park within a short walk from their home, improving the quality of life for all and ensuring Tallahassee is a leader in environmental sustainability.

“It is a powerful affirmation of Tallahassee’s continued dedication to an inclusive, sustainable, and equitable community for all our citizens,” said Mayor Pro-Tem Dianne Williams-Cox. “It shows what we can accomplish when working together for the greater good. The 2025 All-America City win for Tallahassee is a strong testament to that. We are Tallahassee Proud today, and every day!”

A group of residents, students, city employees, and community leaders traveled to Denver to represent Tallahassee at the national event and present our case to be named the 2025 All-America City. With all of the great work happening across Tallahassee, it’s clear this award truly tells the story of our city as one that is collaborative and working hard every day to turn our vision of an inclusive, vibrant future for all into a reality.

“It’s truly been a special week here in Denver, and we are proud to add 'All-American City' to Tallahassee’s list of accomplishments. It’s the kind of award our city can be very proud of,” said Commissioner Jack Porter. “We have been able to show our community to the world, and it is because of the special people in Tallahassee who make a difference every day by being engaged in their community. We love Tallahassee and are proud to call it home.”

Commissioner Curtis Richardson also shared his excitement and said, “In my nearly 25 years of public service, I have been a part of numerous Tallahassee award-winning initiatives. However, very few have ever brought Tallahassee together and national recognition as an All-America City. To be considered one of the greatest American cities is something that happens to a city once or twice in its history. For Tallahassee to do it three times is just extraordinary. I love this city and couldn’t be prouder to be a part of our legacy of success.”

On top of being named one of the 2025 All-America Cities, Tallahassee also won the All-America City social media award!

It's humbling to see Tallahassee on a list with other incredible communities. The full roster of 2025 All-America Cities includes:

Tallahassee, Florida

Port St. Lucie, Florida

Seattle, Washington

Kinston, North Carolina

Akron, Ohio

Hampton, Virginia

Carrboro, North Carolina

Memphis, Tennessee

Jacksonville, North Carolina

Chelsea, Massachusetts

What a time to be in Tallahassee! This is a win for every single person who calls this amazing place home.