4 CA Cities Named Among Top 10 Nationwide

It's official: California has some of the best small and big cities in the country, according to the latest Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards.

Condé Nast Traveler is a lifestyle magazine that has been in publication since 1987 and has become a "global authority on luxury travel," according to its website.

Each year, Condé Nast Traveler publishes its Readers' Choice Awards survey, where hundreds of thousands of voters share their opinions on hotels, cities and the best food around the world.

This year's awards saw more than 750,000 voters share their thoughts on which were the best large cities in the United States.

San Francisco was ranked No. 2 among the best big cities in the country, with the magazine describing it as "blending old-world charm with cutting-edge innovation and has gained worldwide appeal through its distinctive character, diverse communities, luxurious hotels and world-class cuisine."

Oakland, meanwhile, took the No. 6 spot.

"While much has changed over the last few years, Oakland is still a Black city that embraces its history and community with open arms," the magazine said. "That theme is on display thanks to Black business owners who passed down storefronts to children and grandchildren, and a style of dance and music."

San Diego, with its renowned food scene, takes the No. 10 spot.

"San Diego has officially stepped out from the shadow of its big sister to the north, earning world-class destination status that goes well beyond the waves," Condé Nast said. "Come for the sunshine, sure; but stay for everything else."

Here's the full list of the best large cities in the United States:

1. Chicago, Illinois
2. San Francisco, California
3. Boston, Massachusetts
4. New York City, New York
5. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
6. Oakland, California
7. Portland, Oregon
8. Nashville, Tennessee
9. New Orleans, Louisiana
10. San Diego, California

In the best small cities category, the No. 5 spot goes to Santa Barbara, known for its pristine waters and Mediterranean-like climate.

"Along a coastline that includes hot spots like Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Monterey, Santa Barbara stands out just as much for its scenery as it does for its dynamic atmosphere," according to Condé Nast. "The pinnacle of laid-back luxury, it's perfect for beach lovers, foodies, families, pet parents, and everyone in between."

A sleepy town in Sonoma County, meanwhile, took the No. 8 spot.

Healdsburg, located in California's wine capital, is now part of a booming culinary renaissance.

"More rustic than its glitzy neighbor Napa Valley, this pretty town of 11,000 is recognizable for its restored Queen Anne homes and California farmhouses," Condé Nast said. "Equally charming is the walkable downtown and historic plaza, lined with galleries, shops, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms."

Here's the full list of the best small cities in the United States:

1. Charleston, South Carolina
2. Alexandria, Virginia
3. Santa Fe, New Mexico
4. Greenville, South Carolina
5. Santa Barbara
6. Lexington, Kentucky
7. Savannah, Georgia
8. Healdsburg, California
9. San Juan, Puerto Rico
10. St. Augustine, Florida