When choosing a university, college town is one of the most important factors that students and parents should take into consideration. The university’s location and surrounding environment can always not be ignored. A campus situated in a secure and harmonious community can significantly enhance a student’s college experience, providing a nurturing atmosphere that fosters personal growth and well-being. Thus, to complete the pursuit of knowledge and enrich the overall journey of education, it becomes essential to consider attending a university nestled in one of the best college towns in America.
What is a College Town?
A college town or university town is a community occupied primarily by university students, usually a town or city, or occasionally may be a neighbourhood or district of a town or city. College towns are usually characterized by some standard features, including 1) the majority of residents of a college town are students, 2) centred around one or more universities, 3) universities provide main job opportunities in college towns, 4)cultural activities are usually colorful and vibrant, 5) having a well-developed transportation system, 6) developing a range of educational facilities to match the university.
Considerations of Best College Towns
Before diving into the best college towns in the US, let’s first look at the aspects that contribute to top college towns.
University: A university or college is the core of a college town. Its reputation, education quality, academic resources, and facilities are among the top considerations for students when choosing a university.
Population: The student population as a percentage of the total population of a college town is often indicative of the community’s vibrancy, recreational life, and cultural inclusiveness.
Economy: An excellent economic base can significantly enhance a student’s quality of life in the college town. The presence of high-tech companies and established firms also provides a reasonable guarantee of employment.
Culture: The rich and diverse community cultural activities can enhance students’ campus life experience. An inclusive cultural atmosphere also attracts more students.
After understanding the considerations of great college towns, let’s have a look at the top college towns in the United States together!
Best College Towns in America
1. Ann Arbor, Michigan
Ann Arbor is usually considered one of the top college towns in the US. It is located in southern Michigan, USA, about 40 kilometres from Detroit. It has a favourable location, four distinct seasons and a beautiful natural environment with forests and lakes like Hull Great Lakes. The city has a rich cultural life, hosting various art exhibitions, concerts, and festivals, and a friendly and vibrant community atmosphere. Regarding public safety, Ann Arbor’s crime rate is below the national average, providing students with a safe place to study and live.
Ann Arbor has a high level of economic development, with an unemployment rate of 3% – 4%, mainly contributed by the University of Michigan and its related industries. Major corporations such as the University of Michigan, Google, Michigan Medical Center, Toyota Technical Center, NSF International, and others have significantly boosted the development of higher education, healthcare services, and technological research. A high standard of living, quality education, complete medical facilities and pleasant living environment make Ann Arbor one of the best university towns.
2. Madison, Wisconsin
As the second-most populous city in Wisconsin, Madison is home to notable institutions and attractions like the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Henry Vilas Zoo, and the Wisconsin State Capitol. It is extremely attractive to those who love exploring local parks and trails, boating on the lake, and strolling among local stores and business streets. Madison is known for its friendly people, community engagement, and picturesque lakeside setting, leading it to one of the friendliest college towns.
Famous companies like Epic Systems, Exact Sciences, American Family Insurance, and Sub-zero Group greatly boost the development of industries including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. Madison’s economy is stable and diverse, relying on strong growth in the education, technology, and healthcare sectors.
3. Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Many people regard Chapel Hill as the best university in USA since its vibrant atmosphere, strong academic community, and cultural scene. Chapel Hill is ideally located in central North Carolina, USA, near Raleigh and Durham. It is a naturally beautiful area with lush green parks and meandering rivers such as Eubanks Road Park and Homer Rice Field. Major attractions include the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with its stunning campus, the art treasures of the Ackland Art Museum, and the floral landscapes of the Coker Arboretum. Chapel Hill’s cultural life is rich and varied, with numerous museums, art exhibits and concerts, and unique dining experiences. The city blends an academic atmosphere with a strong cultural scene. It also once be hailed as “America’s Foodiest Small Town”.
Chapel Hill has a steady level of economic development that relies heavily on the education, healthcare, and technology sectors. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a core driver of the local economy, and its influence extends to the healthcare and research sectors. In addition, technology companies and innovative businesses around Chapel Hill, like BM Research Triangle Park, Biogen, and Netsertive, energize the local economy, resulting in a relatively healthy local job market.
4. Boulder, Colorado
Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder has great weather with warm summer and snowy winter, making is one of the prettiest college towns in America. Although Boulder is relatively small, the entire city is beautiful and easily accessible. You can also enjoy regular farmer’s markets, coffee shops, thrift shopping, and visiting famous local buildings on Pearl Street and Twenty Ninth Street.
Boulder’s economy is driven primarily by the high-tech, education, and research and development sectors. The city has many large technology companies, research organizations, and startups like Ball Aerospace, Google, IBM, and Soma Ventures. According to most recent data, Boulder’s per capita income ranges from approximately $65,000 – $75,000, higher than the national average for the U.S. However, the cost of living in Boulder is also higher, especially the cost of housing.
5. Berkeley, California
Berkeley, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, combines natural splendour and vibrant urban life. Nestled among rolling hills and lush parks, the city offers serene trails with breathtaking Bay and Golden Gate views. The lively downtown area pulses with eclectic cafes, art galleries, and bustling markets, while the University of California, Berkeley, infuses a dynamic academic spirit. Cultural festivals, outdoor concerts, and farmer’s markets enrich the city’s tapestry, creating a captivating mosaic of relaxation and excitement.
Berkeley is renowned as one of the top college towns for its activism and academic excellence. The University of California, Berkeley, offers strong educational and research institutions and attracts many high-tech companies and startups, such as Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley Lights, Inc., Forge Biologics, and Veracyte, Inc. The median household income in Berkeley is approximately $85,000, roughly 10% higher than the California average. However, the cost of living is high, especially for housing, with the median home price in Berkeley in 2024 at nearly $1.3 million.
6. Ithaca, New York
Nestled in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is a relatively isolated town, 1 hour from the nearest city and 4 hours from New York, leading to a community with its unique style and atmosphere. Ithaca is one of the most beautiful college towns with picturesque natural surroundings; Taughannock Falls State Park features stunning waterfall views and is also the most popular hiking and biking trails in the city. This town is also known for its rich cultural scene, which includes numerous festivals, farmers’ markets, and arts events.
Ithaca’s economy is primarily based on education and services. Major economic drivers include Cornell University and Ithaca College, two institutions of higher education that significantly impact the local economy. In terms of large corporations, Ithaca is home to Cayuga Medical Center, Ithaca Energy, and Tompkins Financial Corporation. The proximity to downtown New York City also gives Ithaca students promising career opportunities.
7. Ames, Iowa
Ames is also one of today’s top college towns in America. It is in central Iowa State, with an excellent geographic location and a convenient transportation network. It is home to Iowa’s largest university, Iowa State University, whose student body makes up nearly half of the city’s population. Ames also enjoys a beautiful natural environment with extensive parks, green spaces, and lakes. Various regular events and festivals, such as farmers’ markets and art exhibits, provide students and visitors with a wealth of entertainment and cultural experiences.
Ames’s economy is stable, and education and research are its primary economic drivers. Iowa State University is the largest employer in the area, and the Ames Lab and Mary Greeley Medical Center contribute significantly to the city’s 2-3% low unemployment rate. Ames has a low cost of living and a high standard of living, and most of the student population contributes to this community’s inclusive, friendly, and harmonious atmosphere.
8. Gainesville, Florida
Gainesville has near tropical weather, lush greenery, and natural habitats like Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Various cultural activities, museums, and art exhibitions offer students a colourful college life. The low cost of living compared with other big cities also makes Gainesville one of the best college towns to live in.
Gainesville’s annual population growth rate is about 1.1%, and Gainesville’s total population has grown by about 8% to 10% over the past decade, accompanied by steady growth in the city’s employment rate and average income. With this growth in employment come several powerful companies such as Gatorade, RTI Surgical, Exactech, University of Florida Research Foundation, and Cytokinetics, providing a good guarantee for the development of the economy and the employment of students.
9. State College, Pennsylvania
Population: 41,000
Student Population: 46,000
University: Penn State University (University Park campus)
State College is a city in central Pennsylvania that is encircled by rolling hills, thick forests, and the Appalachian Mountains. Due to its topography, the region experiences four distinct seasons: frigid, snowy winters and sweltering, humid summers. Students at State College have access to a wide range of cultural and recreational events, such as concerts, sporting events, and art exhibits, in addition to outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
This college town’s economy and culture are mostly driven by Pennsylvania State University, which also contributes to the city’s increased academic vibrancy. The campus of the university takes up much of the city. Every part of the neighborhood is significantly impacted by its events, amenities, and student life. State College is a university town with an abundance of educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities.
10. Corvallis, Oregon
Corvallis is in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, surrounded by magnificent mountains and bountiful forests. The area has serene natural beauty and stunning landscapes, such as Peterson Park and the Bells Mountains, making it the #1 Green Power Community in 2009. As the home of Oregon State University, Corvallis has a vibrant cultural life, with art exhibits, concerts, and local farmers’ markets on and off campus, infusing the town with unique charm and movement and making it one of the best college towns in America.
The city has several high-tech and biotech companies, such as NUVI and Controlled Climate Technologies. Oregon State University also significantly contributes to the development of research and innovation. Residents enjoy a high standard of living and excellent education, healthcare, and recreational facilities. The stable job market and pleasant living environment make Corvallis a highly desirable university town.
Best University Towns in US (Continued)
| Best University Towns in US | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| College Town | Associated University/College | Total Population | Student Population | Strengths | |
| 11 | Charlottesville, Virginia | University of Virginia | 49000 | ~25,000 | Historic charm, Blue Ridge Mountains |
| 12 | Santa Barbara, California | University of California, Santa Barbara | 92000 | ~25,000 | Coastal views, Mediterranean climate |
| 13 | Asheville, North Carolina | University of North Carolina at Asheville | 95000 | ~3,000 | Arts scene, mountain views |
| 14 | Flagstaff, Arizona | Northern Arizona University | 75000 | ~30,000 | Proximity to Grand Canyon, outdoor activities |
| 15 | Eugene, Oregon | University of Oregon | 176000 | ~23,000 | Green spaces, progressive culture |
| 16 | Cambridge, Massachusetts | Harvard University, MIT | 118000 | ~50,000 | Historic, academic excellence |
| 17 | Oxford, Ohio | Miami University | 22000 | ~21,000 | Charming historic town, strong academic programs |
| 18 | Amherst, Massachusetts | Amherst College | 37000 | ~1,800 | Quaint, academic-focused community |
| 19 | Claremont, California | Claremont Colleges | 37000 | ~9,000 | Beautiful campus, collaborative educational environment |
| 20 | Williamsport, Pennsylvania | Lycoming College | 29000 | ~1,300 | Small-town charm, strong local community |
| 21 | Gettysburg, Pennsylvania | Gettysburg College | 8000 | ~2,600 | Historic significance, picturesque setting |
| 22 | Hanover, New Hampshire | Dartmouth College | 8000 | ~6,000 | Rural charm, Ivy League academic standards |
| 23 | Kalamazoo, Michigan | Western Michigan University | 76000 | ~20,000 | Vibrant arts scene, strong local community |
| 24 | Durham, North Carolina | Duke University | 32000 | ~17,000 | Historic campus, research strength |
| 25 | Waco, Texas | Baylor University | 150000 | ~19,000 | Community spirit, strong local institutions |
| 26 | Columbia, Missouri | University of Missouri | 127000 | ~30,000 | Strong academic programs, friendly atmosphere |
| 27 | Seattle, Washington | University of Washington | 769000 | ~47,000 | Urban setting, tech and research focus |
| 28 | Tempe, Arizona | Arizona State University | 190000 | ~73,000 | Innovation, diverse student body |
| 29 | Baton Rouge, Louisiana | Louisiana State University | 225000 | ~34,000 | Cultural heritage, strong academic programs |
| 30 | Providence, Rhode Island | Brown University | 190000 | ~10,000 | Historic charm, vibrant arts scene |
| 31 | Atlanta, Georgia | Emory University, Georgia State University | 510000 | ~50,000 | Diverse culture, strong academic presence |
| 32 | West Lafayette, Indiana | Purdue University | 50000 | ~45,000 | Engineering and research excellence |
| 33 | College Station, Texas | Texas A&M University | 120000 | ~68,000 | Strong Aggie spirit, research focus |
| 34 | Princeton, New Jersey | Princeton University | 30000 | ~8,000 | Ivy League prestige, picturesque setting |
| 35 | College Park, Maryland | University of Maryland | 32000 | ~37,000 | Proximity to D.C., strong academic programs |
| 36 | Oxford, Mississippi | University of Mississippi | 27000 | ~24,000 | Historic town, Southern charm |
| 37 | Cedar Falls, Iowa | University of Northern Iowa | 42000 | ~10,000 | Small-town appeal, strong educational focus |
| 38 | Tuscaloosa, Alabama | University of Alabama | 100000 | ~38,000 | Football culture, Southern hospitality |
| 39 | Mount Pleasant, Michigan | Central Michigan UniversityNorthern Arizona University | 26000 | ~20,000 | Strong academic programs, small-town feel |
| 40 | San Luis Obispo, California | California Polytechnic State University | 47000 | ~22,000 | Coastal climate, strong engineering programs |
| 41 | Lexington, Kentucky | University of Kentucky | 322000 | ~30,000 | Horse racing heritage, vibrant community |
| 42 | Tampa, Florida | University of South Florida | 400000 | ~50,000 | Urban setting, strong research programs |
| 43 | Hamilton, New York | Colgate University | 5000 | ~3,000 | Small-town charm, strong academic focus |
| 44 | Stillwater, Oklahoma | Oklahoma State University | 50000 | ~24,000 | Strong agricultural and engineering programs |
| 45 | Nashville, Tennessee | Vanderbilt University | 715000 | ~12,000 | Music scene, strong academic reputation |
| 46 | Athens, Georgia | University of Georgia | 128,000 | ~30,000 | Vibrant music scene, historic charm |
| 47 | Lincoln, Nebraska | University of Nebraska | 293000 | ~25,000 | Research strength, strong local community |
| 48 | Columbia, South Carolina | University of South Carolina | 133000 | ~30,000 | Historic charm, strong academic programs |
| 49 | Raleigh, North Carolina | North Carolina State University | 474000 | ~36,000 | Research excellence, tech hub |
| 50 | Lewisburg, Pennsylvania | Bucknell University | 5,000 | ~3,600 | Small-town charm, strong liberal arts focus |
Settlement in Top College Towns
In college towns although the infrastructure is generally good, and most are getting better, there are some common problems in university towns. Due to their diverse, dense, and highly mobile populations, university towns are often noisy, with traffic congestion and cultural clashes, making housing a persistent problem. Of course, this aspect has improved considerably in recent years, with close to 50 percent or more of U.S. students now living off-campus. More and more developers and universities are building specialized student housing off-campus, providing students with a diverse range of options.
How can you find the best student housing in the United States? uhomes.com will help you find a cost-effective room with the utility bills included and the highest cashback guaranteed. We provide a wide range of student housing with modern amenities, various room types, good locations, and reasonable prices in many of the best college towns in America. For example, if you want to find student housing in Berkeley, our top recommendations are Hillside Village, Sterling Haste, and Varsity Berkeley. If you’re looking for student housing at State College, we have some of the best choices, like The Standard at State College, The Yards at Old State, and The Station State College. If you want to explore more in other cities, do not hesitate to visit uhomes.com!
Conclusion
Choosing the best college towns in America often becomes an important part of choosing a good university. A good university town offers students a variety of accommodation options, convenient transportation, beautiful natural and urban environments, colourful recreational life, a diverse and inclusive cultural atmosphere, and abundant employment opportunities. Remember to choose the best university towns to live in!
FAQ
Which is usa today best college town?
As of the latest rankings, USA Today has recognized Chapel Hill, North Carolina as one of the top college towns in the United States. This recognition highlights Chapel Hill’s vibrant atmosphere, strong academic community centered around the University of North Carolina, and its lively cultural scene. The town’s blend of historical charm, excellent dining options, and engaging local events contribute to its esteemed status as a premier college town.
Are college towns safe?
Yes, college towns generally have a reputation for being safe, partly due to the presence of university security and community policing.
However, safety can vary widely depending on the specific town and its surrounding areas. It’s always a good idea to research crime statistics, talk to current students, and review local safety resources for a more accurate picture of safety in any particular college town.
What are some of the biggest college towns in America?
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
University of Michigan: A major research university with a significant impact on the local culture and economy.
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: One of the oldest public universities in the U.S., contributing heavily to the town’s identity.
- Berkeley, California
University of California, Berkeley: Known for its activism and academic excellence, UC Berkeley shapes much of the town’s character.
- Boston, Massachusetts
Multiple Institutions: Home to several major universities, including Harvard University, MIT, and Boston University, creating a dense academic and cultural hub.
What is America's friendliest college town?
Athens, Georgia: Home to the University of Georgia, Athens is known for its warm hospitality, vibrant music scene, and strong local community spirit. Residents are often noted for their friendliness towards students and visitors.
Boulder, Colorado: With the University of Colorado Boulder, this town offers a welcoming environment with a strong focus on outdoor activities, a progressive atmosphere, and a supportive local community.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina: Home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, this town is celebrated for its friendly residents, charming downtown area, and inclusive community events.
Madison, Wisconsin: The University of Wisconsin-Madison contributes to a lively and welcoming atmosphere in this city. Madison is known for its friendly people, community engagement, and picturesque lakeside setting.
What are the most beautiful college towns in America?
Boulder, Colorado: Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder offers breathtaking views, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a vibrant downtown area. The University of Colorado Boulder is central to the town’s appeal.
Charlottesville, Virginia: Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is known for its historic charm, beautiful campus designed by Thomas Jefferson, and scenic surroundings including the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains.
Santa Barbara, California: With the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), this coastal town is famous for its stunning ocean views, Mediterranean architecture, and pleasant climate.
Ithaca, New York: Known for its natural beauty, including gorges and waterfalls, Ithaca is home to Cornell University and offers a picturesque setting with a strong sense of community.
What college has the nicest campus in the US?
Stanford University: frequently cited for having one of the most beautiful campuses. Its sprawling grounds feature lush landscapes, stunning architecture, and iconic landmarks such as the Main Quad and the Stanford Dish.
University of California, Berkeley: with its scenic views of the Bay Area.
University of Virginia: known for its historic and architecturally significant Rotunda and Lawn designed by Thomas Jefferson.
What is the best city to go to college?
Boston, Massachusetts: Known for its concentration of prestigious universities such as Harvard, MIT, and Boston University. The city offers a vibrant academic atmosphere, rich cultural scene, and numerous historical sites.
San Francisco, California: Home to institutions like the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Stanford University nearby. San Francisco is known for its diverse culture, innovative tech industry, and beautiful landscapes.
Austin, Texas: A thriving city with the University of Texas at Austin. Austin is celebrated for its lively music scene, food culture, and dynamic tech industry.
New York City, New York: With many top colleges and universities, including Columbia University and New York University (NYU), NYC provides unparalleled cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
