We analyzed all the voting trends and core values of every city to find the most liberal cities in the South of the US. When you think about liberal cities in the U.S., your mind might go to places like New York or San Francisco.

But, have you considered the South? While it usually evokes images of the taste of sweet tea and the smell the smoky air from a BBQ joint on the corner, there’s more happening here than those typical clichés.

You probably don’t picture it as a bastion of progressive ideas, right? Yet, hidden between the sprawling magnolia trees and historic landmarks, are cities that are alive with change, passion, and forward-thinking ideals. Yes, these cities may surprise you. They’ve carved out spaces where diversity, social justice, and art pulse with intensity.

Methodology – Most Liberal Cities in the South in 2024

To identify the most progressive cities in the South, we looked at a variety of factors that contribute to a city’s progressive atmosphere. Here’s what we considered:

1. Dedication to Social Services: Cities that invest in public services like education, healthcare, and housing tend to be more liberal.
2. Lively Arts and Culture Opportunities: Cities that prioritize the arts often reflect more progressive values.
3. Higher Education Institutions: Universities and colleges contribute to liberal ideas and diverse populations.
4. Welcoming LGBTQ+ Community: The strength of support for LGBTQ+ rights indicates a city’s liberal stance.
5. Racial Diversity: Cities with more racial and ethnic diversity tend to embrace progressive values.
6. Environmental Awareness: Liberal cities often push for green initiatives like recycling programs, public transportation, and renewable energy.

We also looked at recent voting trends, such as how cities voted in the last few presidential elections. These trends help paint a picture of the political leanings of the people who live there. Lastly, we considered the cultural vibe and events that contribute to a city’s liberal atmosphere.

The 10 Most Liberal Cities in the South of the US

10. Richmond, Virginia

Location: Check on Google Maps

Richmond is a city that balances the past with the future. You can walk down the streets here and see echoes of history everywhere, but don’t misunderstand it —Richmond is changing. It’s shaking off the dust of its Confederate past and embracing something more progressive, more inclusive.

In the 2020 election, over 80% of voters backed the Democratic candidate. Meanwhile, the arts scene here? Phenomenal. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is just the beginning. The city’s also got a growing LGBTQ+ community that is loud and proud, especially during RVA Pride. Richmond is evolving, and the energy is undeniable.

9. Asheville, North Carolina

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Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and it’s the kinda place that feels like a weekend escape—but not from progress. It’s got a vibe that’s laid-back and wholly connected to nature, which makes sense because this place is as green as it gets. About 76% of voters here went blue in 2020, and Asheville’s pushing hard on environmental sustainability.

Organic farms? Everywhere. Local breweries? Check. The arts scene? Explosive. Walk down any street, and you’re bound to stumble across live music, an art show, or both.

And if you’re all about the LGBTQ+ community, Asheville’s one of the most welcoming places in the South. It’s a city with its roots in the earth and its sights set on a better future.

8. Nashville, Tennessee

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You probably think country music when you hear Nashville, and you wouldn’t be wrong. But, this city is actually so much more than that, especially in recent years.

It’s a hotspot for healthcare and tech, with job opportunities around every corner. In the 2020 election, more than 67% of voters backed the Democratic candidate, showing that Nashville’s got a real progressive streak.

The LGBTQ+ community is growing, and the city’s music scene goes way beyond country—there’s something for everyone here. Nashville’s also putting a lot of effort into going green, with new parks, bike lanes, and eco-friendly initiatives popping up all over the place. This city’s got heart and soul.

7. Durham, North Carolina

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Durham is part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle and it’s a city where brains and passion collide.

It’s home to Duke University, but this place is more than just an academic hub. Durham’s got history. A deep, rich history that goes back to the civil rights movement. And today, it’s still fighting for justice and equality.

Over 80% of voters here chose the Democratic candidate in 2020, which tells you a lot about where this city stands. The arts? Thriving. The LGBTQ+ community? Visible and vibrant. Events like the American Dance Festival and Out! Raleigh Pride make sure that Durham stays progressive, loud, and quite forward-thinking.

6. Athens, Georgia

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Athens ain’t quite like the rest of Georgia. It’s a college town with an artistic soul. The University of Georgia keeps things young and lively, but there’s also an older, bohemian spirit floating around.

About 71% of voters went blue in 2020, and the city’s growing LGBTQ+ community is proof that Athens is becoming more inclusive every day. The music scene? Legendary.

We’re talking about R.E.M. and the B-52s, and AthFest keeps that tradition alive year after year. And the city’s obsession with sustainability means farm-to-table restaurants and green living are pretty much the norm here. Athens is small, but it punches way above its weight.

5. Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston might be known for its charm, but don’t let the cobblestone streets fool you. This city’s got a progressive pulse beneath all that history.

In 2020, more than 65% of Charleston County’s voters went Democratic, and the city is embracing the future in big ways. Spoleto Festival USA is a major international arts event, bringing artists from all over the globe to this Southern gem.

The LGBTQ+ community is finding a voice here, and the city’s pushing hard for environmental action, especially with its coastline under threat. Charleston is a mix of the old and the new, and it’s leaning forward.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

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New Orleans is a city known for its resilience and vibrant culture, which also makes it one of the most liberal cities in the South. The city leans Democratic, with 83% of voters supporting the Democratic candidate in 2020.

The arts and culture scene in New Orleans is world-renowned, with festivals like Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival attracting visitors from around the globe. The city’s racial diversity is a key part of its identity, with its Creole and African American history celebrated through music, food, and festivals.

New Orleans also has a strong LGBTQ+ community, with the city hosting events like Southern Decadence, one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the South.

3. Austin, Texas

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Austin is often described as an oasis of liberalism in the heart of Texas. The city has a strong Democratic base, with 71% of voters supporting the Democratic candidate in 2020.

Known for its “Keep Austin Weird” vibe, the city has a thriving arts and music scene, with events like South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival. Austin’s tech industry and universities, like the University of Texas at Austin, contribute to its progressive atmosphere.

Austin is also known for its environmental initiatives, with the city investing in public transportation, green energy, and bike-friendly infrastructure. The LGBTQ+ community in Austin is large and active, with events like the Austin Pride Parade drawing thousands each year.

2. Atlanta, Georgia

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Atlanta isn’t just a city; it’s a movement. A hub of history, culture, and progress.

It’s where Martin Luther King Jr. was born and where civil rights continue to evolve. More than 80% of voters here chose the Democratic candidate in 2020, and the city’s been a stronghold of progressive ideals ever since.

Meanwhile, the arts scene here is immense and one of the best in the South. The High Museum of Art, Atlanta Film Festival, you name it—this city has it. Atlanta’s also home to several historically Black colleges and universities, which means there’s a rich sense of community and pride here. The LGBTQ+ scene is thriving, and climate action is becoming a priority as the city grows.

Atlanta is a city on the move, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.

1. Miami, Florida

Location: Check on Google Maps

Miami is electric, alive, and just plain fun. But don’t let the beaches and palm trees fool you—this city is serious about being progressive.

Sure, Florida’s a swing state, but Miami-Dade County is a blue stronghold. In 2020, over 63% of voters went Democrat.

Miami’s diversity is its heartbeat. With strong ties to Latin America and the Caribbean, the city pulses with a blend of cultures that make it unique.

Art Basel Miami Beach is one of the biggest contemporary art events in the world. The LGBTQ+ community is huge here, and Miami Beach Pride is one of the largest Pride events in the country. And climate change? Miami’s at the forefront, battling rising sea levels with innovative solutions. This city’s got it all.

There is also the Miami Freedom Project that looks to transform the political landscape through education and outreach.

All of these factors make Miami the most liberal city in the South.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which liberal city in the South has the best job market?
Austin, Texas. It’s booming with tech giants like Google and Apple moving in, plus a strong healthcare industry.

2. Which liberal city in the South is the most affordable?
Durham, North Carolina. It’s got a decent cost of living compared to other major liberal cities like Austin or Miami, and you still get that progressive vibe.

3. Which liberal city in the South is the fastest-growing?
Atlanta, Georgia. The city’s exploding with growth, thanks to a thriving film industry, tech scene, and a diverse economy.

4. Which liberal city in the South is best for young professionals?
Nashville, Tennessee. Healthcare, tech, and education jobs are all here, plus the nightlife is unbeatable.

5. Which liberal city in the South is best for retirees?
Charleston, South Carolina. Its charm, strong healthcare system, and coastal vibes make it a top pick for those looking to retire with a liberal mindset.