Reader's Digest Names Liverpool, NY, the Nicest Place in America
The lakeside village was recognized for its strong sense of community, volunteerism, and generosity.
Liverpool, New York, a village situated on the shores of Onondaga Lake, has been awarded the title of "Nicest Place in America" by Reader's Digest. The annual recognition celebrates communities demonstrating exceptional neighborliness, kindness, and civic engagement.
Reader's Digest selected Liverpool for its widespread acts of goodwill, highlighting the community's commitment to volunteerism, philanthropy, and generosity. "Residents of Liverpool are united by a common understanding that small change brings big impact and that helping others – without motive or promise of reward – is the ultimate expression of human connection," said Leigh Belz Ray, Editor-in-Chief of Reader's Digest.
The publication noted specific examples of this community spirit, including Ralph Rotella, a cobbler who has dedicated years to refurbishing and donating over 300,000 pairs of shoes to those in need. Rotella expressed his ongoing commitment, stating, "As long as my hands work and I can walk and dance, we’ll do it." Residents have actively supported his efforts, often bringing him shoes to repair.
Another community initiative highlighted is Operation Northern Comfort, a volunteer organization that originated in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The group now focuses on local needs, providing assistance and repairs for residents. "What made Liverpool stand out is that there wasn’t just one central aspect of community support and togetherness – it was happening all over the small village: from neighbor-to-neighbor care to bigger programs across the area, like Operation Northern Comfort and In My Father’s Kitchen," Ray explained.
In My Father's Kitchen, an organization offering non-denominational aid to unhoused individuals through direct street outreach, was also recognized for its contributions.
Mayor Stacey Finney of Liverpool commented on the town's character, noting, "I do think there’s a spirit of volunteerism in Liverpool. Because people love the area they live in, they want to enhance it. You’ve got to love where you live, and invest your time where you live."
Reader's Digest's selection process for the "Nicest Places in America" list involves reader nominations and a review by a panel of judges. This year's judges included "Today" show co-host Craig Melvin, author Mitch Albom, and Molly Irani, from last year's winning town, Asheville, North Carolina. Previous honorees include Asheville, NC (2025), Provo, UT (2024), and Buffalo, NY (2023).
The 2026 finalists for the award were Portland, Oregon; Charleston, Arkansas; and Swanville, Minnesota. In 2024, Fort Greene in Brooklyn was a runner-up for the title.