Worthington Earns Dual Spots on USA TODAY's 10BEST Small Town Lists

The Columbus suburb is recognized for its vibrant community and quality of life.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:06pm

A highly stylized, pop art-inspired illustration featuring a repeating grid of a single iconic Worthington landmark or local business, rendered in bold, neon-like colors and heavy black outlines to capture the town's unique character and community spirit.Worthington's vibrant small-town charm and historic appeal earn it national recognition as one of the country's best small towns.Worthington Today

The Columbus suburb of Worthington, Ohio, was recognized in two of USA TODAY's 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards, ranking No. 8 on the list of Best Small Towns and No. 4 on the list of Best Historic Small Towns.

Why it matters

Worthington's dual accolades on the prestigious USA TODAY lists highlight the city's thriving community, historic charm, and high quality of life, which have made it an increasingly popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

The details

Worthington, a community just north of Columbus, was praised for its vibrant downtown, rich history, and array of local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that contribute to its small-town appeal. The city's walkable streets, green spaces, and community events were also noted as factors in its recognition.

  • The 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards were announced on April 3, 2026.

The players

Worthington, Ohio

A Columbus suburb known for its historic downtown, local businesses, and high quality of life.

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The takeaway

Worthington's dual rankings on the USA TODAY 10BEST lists demonstrate how a small town can maintain its historic charm and community spirit while also offering the amenities and attractions that make it an increasingly desirable place to live and visit.