A NEW TREND EMERGED in the 1990s: a shift of city dwellers from metropolitan areas to small towns and cities. This trend is particularly evident in the South as this region attracts more growth and more second homes and experiences increases in income and education levels. Frustrated with city traffic, air pollution, crowded suburbs, and declining quality of life, city dwellers are seeking desirable, small Southern towns. Finding the best town, however, can be a challenge. This helpful guide is just the place to start your search. Sweitzer and Fields researched and visited over 150 sites to give you this comprehensive guidebook with information on the fifty best small towns in nine southeastern states. To be featured in the book, each town had to meet stringent qualifications: population under 25,000, positive population growth, readily available cultural and recreational attractions, adult education opportunities, healthcare options, and internet access. Each town's detailed description includes information on: Recreational highlights Cultural scene Natural environment Economic and education profiles Healthcare Vital statistics (population, cost of living, median incomes, etc.) Directions. The appendix offers quick reference charts showing the carious facts and features for each town. Read Less