Swanville, Minnesota, named one of the nicest places in America

Swanville, Minnesota, has been named one of the nicest places in America by Reader's Digest. The small town, which has a population of just over 320 people, was recognized primarily for its Dollars for Scholars program.

Established in 1987, the program provides scholarships to every student who applies from Swanville High School. The initiative distributes approximately $100,000 annually, which students can use for college, trade school, or continuing life skills programs. Funding for the scholarships is raised through community events such as bingo nights, poinsettia sales, and meat raffles.

While Swanville was a finalist, the top title for the nicest place in America for 2026 was awarded to Liverpool, New York.