Choosing the right college isn’t just about academics anymore, it’s about finding a place where students can thrive socially, financially, and personally for four transformative years. “Picking the right college is crucial, but it’s also important to make sure that the surrounding college town will be a place where you’ll truly love spending your college years,” says WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo.
To determine the top locations to attend college in 2025, we based our ranking not only on the academic accolades of the universities, but on the things that college-age people today value most. We analyzed 12 different factors, including cost of living, tuition fees, graduation rates, natural amenities, air quality, entertainment options and many more. The results reveal fascinating trends about what makes a college town truly exceptional in today’s landscape.
Austin, Texas
This is not the first time Austin has topped the list. It is the sixth year in a row that the Texas capital has been named the best college town in the country. It’s no surprise that Austin, Texas, with its distinct counterculture, vibrant nightlife, hot culinary scene, and innumerable music venues, ranks as the best big college town in the United States.
Key Statistics:
- Austin earned a score of 65.16 points out of a possible 100, and performed its best in the national rankings for “academic and economic opportunities” (No. 14)
- On top of that, Austin ranks 18th in the nation for the quality of higher education among more than 400 cities in our study. It also has the 85th-cheapest in-state tuition (including room and board), at $31,433 per year
- [Austin has] one of the lowest unemployment rates in the U.S. and the fifth-best annual job growth rate, allowing students to easily find work while in school or helping them transition to a job immediately after
Universities: University of Texas at Austin, Concordia University, St. Edward’s University
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor was the second-highest ranking out of the top 20 college towns for academic and economic opportunities. It provides opportunities for social connections too, with 348 out of every 1,000 residents being students, per WalletHub.
It’s the 15th safest college town in America we measured, and Ann Arbor is in the top 5% when it comes to entertainment options per capita, too. Nice job, Maize and Blue. The Ann Arbor, MI, metro area is the most educated in the country, with nearly 96% of adults ages 25 and older having at least a high school diploma, over 58% having a bachelor’s degree and 31% having an advanced degree.
Key Features:
- In Ann Arbor, Michigan, the average cost of in-state tuition is about $33,556, according to WalletHub, which is much lower than some of the more expensive college towns that can cost nearly $90,000 in comparison
- Ann Arbor also ranks ninth in the country when it comes to the quality of its universities, and it has the 18th-best public-school system
University: University of Michigan
Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida, is home to more than Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, though students who call the city home will find no shortage of theme parks. The city’s schools include the University of Central Florida, Valencia College, and neighboring smaller institutions.
Orlando, Florida, ranked No. 3 on WalletHub’s list, and despite being a big city, it has the 19th-cheapest tuition for in-state students. Orlando also has lots of recreational and educational enrichment for students and has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation.
Universities: University of Central Florida, Valencia College, Rollins College
Tampa, Florida
Florida’s representation continues with Tampa taking the fourth spot, offering students year-round sunshine, affordable living, and strong job prospects in a growing metropolitan area with the University of South Florida leading its educational offerings.
Raleigh, North Carolina
The Durham, NC metro area is the second-most educated in America, with residents pursuing higher education at high rates. Over 52% of adults ages 25 and older have at least a bachelor’s degree, and 26% have a graduate or professional degree. Raleigh benefits from this regional educational excellence as part of the Research Triangle, home to NC State University.
Bozeman, Montana
According to alternative rankings, Bozeman, Montana was ranked the No. 1 college town in America for the second year running in RentCafe’s analysis. The home of Montana State University scored especially high on access to nature, low crime, and student-friendly cost of living.
Do you see yourself studying on a blanket, on a large campus, surrounded by trees, with amazing mountain views? You’re describing one of the best college towns in the country!
University: Montana State University
Charlottesville, Virginia
Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville combines Thomas Jefferson’s architectural legacy with modern educational excellence. Among small college cities on the WalletHub list — those with populations smaller than 125,000 — Laramie ranks behind only Ann Arbor, Mich.; Charlottesville, Va.; Berkeley, Calif.; and West Lafayette, Ind.
University: University of Virginia
Madison, Wisconsin
Nestled between two lakes, Madison offers a thriving arts scene, farm-to-table dining, and a lively sports culture thanks to the University of Wisconsin. The Madison, WI metro area is the third-most educated in the country, with over 49% of the population ages 25 and older having at least a bachelor’s degree and over 19% having an advanced degree.
Those who enjoy exploring local parks and trails, boating on the lake, or dining in a vibrant culinary scene will love Madison. Flanked between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, Madison offers a variety of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and specialty stores on its iconic State Street.
University: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Berkeley, California
Just east of San Francisco, you’ll find one of the best college towns in California. The University of California, Berkeley is a top public university known for being a hot spot for arts, culture, and politics. Credited as the birthplace of the Free Speech Movement, the campus frequently hosts political rallies and protests.
All that walking must really pay off, because Berkeley was actually named the healthiest city in America. So, if you enjoy an active lifestyle, a wide range of parks, or fishing on the marina, then Berkeley may be a good fit for you.
University: University of California, Berkeley
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Having spent nearly four years living in Chapel Hill, the author of this post can attest to the quality of life in Chapel Hill. Not only is the basketball team the best in the nation (and very well supported), the quality of life on and around campus is amazing.
This cozy town revolves around UNC basketball, Southern hospitality, and Franklin Street’s bustling bars and cafes. Chapel Hill represents the quintessential college town experience with its historic charm and passionate sports culture.
University: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Boulder, Colorado
With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, Boulder combines outdoor adventure, a health-conscious vibe, and the dynamic University of Colorado campus. Boulder offers students an unmatched combination of academic rigor and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Austin’s tech scene, Boulder’s startups, and Ann Arbor’s ties to Detroit industries provide internships and jobs, making Boulder a hub for entrepreneurial students.
University: University of Colorado Boulder
Iowa City, Iowa
A UNESCO City of Literature, Iowa City blends literary charm with Big Ten sports and a walkable downtown centered around the University of Iowa. Located in Johnson County, Iowa City is one of Iowa State’s largest cities, recognized as an ideal location for doing business by popular American publications.
Iowa City’s UNESCO City of Literature designation create intellectual-cultural environments that extend well beyond campus programming. These towns attract creative communities and offer cultural depth that enriches both academic work and personal development.
University: University of Iowa
Ames, Iowa
Based on a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics October 2020 report, Ames has the lowest unemployment among all metropolitan areas in the country (BLS, 2020). As such, graduates are almost guaranteed to find jobs given the wealth of career opportunities presented by the city.
Ames is unique in that it offers a “small town feel” but with many exciting big city offerings. For example, Ames is at the intersection of outdoor living, arts, and sports and recreation. With nature trails to hike, tribute shows and Broadway musicals to see, and college athletics to root for, this city offers something for everyone.
University: Iowa State University
State College, Pennsylvania
Penn State’s massive alumni network keeps this town lively, with football Saturdays turning it into one of the biggest parties in the country. State College exemplifies the power of college sports in creating community identity and school spirit.
Though it is typically regarded as a small town, State College has no shortage of opportunity. With hundreds of acres of parks to explore, nature centers, and historic walking tours, there are many chances to both get outdoors and learn something new.
University: Pennsylvania State University
Athens, Georgia
A quintessential Southern college town, Athens boasts legendary music venues, a buzzing bar scene, and the spirited University of Georgia community. Notable for being the Birthplace of R.E.M. & the B-52s (iconic music scene at 40 Watt Club).
Athens, Georgia’s historical music legacy (birthplace of R.E.M. and The B-52s) creates an intellectual-cultural environment that extends well beyond campus programming, attracting creative communities and offering cultural depth.
University: University of Georgia