The 10 Best College Towns in America

When students are trying to make a college decision, it’s normal to focus on the schools themselves. However, by using another approach, students may be able to narrow down their choices far faster. Since the city they live in impacts their broader experience, concentrating on the best college towns in America can be a wise move. College towns are often shaped by young people, whose presence brings energy and vibrancy to the local culture.

By learning about the best college towns in America, students can factor in lifestyle and access to amenities into their search. Most college towns are known for a great culture and solid academics, ensuring students get more of what they need. The quality of education and life in top college towns is a major draw, offering excellent academic reputations and enriching experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Since that’s the case, students may have an easier time finding a solid overall match.

Additionally, a college visit to these towns can provide valuable insight into the community atmosphere and help students envision their life there.

If your student wants to ensure their total experience is as positive as possible, here’s what they need to know about college towns in the US, including how these communities shape the lives of both students and residents.

Whether your student has their sights set on one of the best college towns in America or another city, scholarships can make nearly any school affordable. If you and your student want to learn about college scholarships, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Take a quick trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve a spot today.

What Is a College Town?

In the simplest sense, a college town is a city where the local university plays a massive role in the area’s culture and economy. These towns often have a distinct college town feel, characterized by a vibrant, youthful atmosphere, the presence of students, campus-related events, and a blend of academic and cultural activities that foster a lively, community-oriented environment. In many cases, the towns cater to the school to a degree. For example, they often have amenities and vibes that suit younger adults.

Additionally, college towns are typically incredibly supportive of their city’s university. Broad community involvement in events is common, and many residents want to do what they can to ensure the school thrives.

What Makes a College Town Great?

A great college town is more than just a place to attend classes—it’s a vibrant community that enhances the college experience in every way. The best college towns in America are known for their lively atmosphere, where the student population brings energy and diversity to daily life. These towns are filled with cozy coffee shops, unique restaurants, and plenty of entertainment options, making it easy for students to find their favorite hangouts or discover something new.

What truly sets a great college town apart is its strong sense of community and school spirit. From spirited game days to annual festivals and local events, there’s always something happening that brings students and residents together. The close connection between the college or university and the town itself means that education is at the heart of the community, with many resources and opportunities available to support students both academically and socially.

Affordable living, walkable neighborhoods, and a welcoming environment make these towns ideal for students looking to live, learn, and thrive. Whether it’s the bustling downtown or the quiet parks, the best college towns in America offer a perfect blend of academic excellence, entertainment, and community spirit.

Economic Growth and Job Prospects

When choosing a college town, it’s important to consider the economic opportunities available both during and after graduation. The best college towns in America are often economic hubs, thanks in large part to the presence of major universities like Iowa State University and Oregon State University. These institutions not only provide education but also drive innovation and job creation in their communities.

Cities such as Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Chapel Hill, North Carolina, are prime examples of college towns with strong economies and diverse job prospects. Home to top-tier schools, these towns attract businesses in fields like healthcare, technology, and research, offering students a wide range of career paths. The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in places like San Luis Obispo, California, where students are encouraged to launch startups and pursue their own ventures.

The economic vitality of these towns means that students can find internships, part-time jobs, and networking opportunities that help them build their careers while still in school. After graduation, many choose to stay and contribute to the local economy, making these college towns some of the best places in America for launching a successful career.

Arts, Entertainment, and Culture

A thriving arts and entertainment scene is a hallmark of the best college towns in America. From live music and theater to art galleries and film festivals, these towns offer endless opportunities for students to explore their creative sides and enjoy a rich cultural life. Cities like Athens, Georgia, and Austin, Texas, are legendary for their music scenes, with countless bars and venues showcasing both local talent and big-name acts.

College towns such as East Lansing, Michigan, and Iowa City, Iowa, are also known for their vibrant communities, where arts and culture are celebrated year-round through festivals, public art installations, and community events. The presence of private colleges like Montana State University and Colorado Campus adds to the diversity and creativity found in these towns, attracting students and artists from all over the country.

Whether you’re catching a show, visiting a museum, or participating in a local art walk, the best college towns make it easy to immerse yourself in arts, entertainment, and culture. This lively atmosphere not only enriches student life but also helps create a strong sense of community and belonging.

Campus and Community Safety

Safety is a top priority for students and their families when considering a college town. The best college towns in America are known for their low crime rates and proactive safety measures, ensuring that students can focus on their education and enjoy their time on campus. Towns like State College, Pennsylvania, and Chapel Hill, North Carolina, have established strong partnerships between universities and local law enforcement, creating a secure environment for everyone.

Popular destinations like Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, Colorado, are not only bustling with shops and entertainment but are also recognized for their safe, welcoming atmosphere. Universities such as the University of Michigan and the University of Texas invest heavily in campus safety, offering a range of services from late-night transportation to emergency response programs.

These efforts help foster a sense of trust and community, making college towns some of the safest and most supportive places to live and learn in America. With a focus on both campus and community safety, students can enjoy all that these towns have to offer with peace of mind.

Here is a list of some of the ten best college towns in the US, in no particular order:

1. College Station, TX

While College Station, Texas is a larger city, more than 40 percent of the population is college students. As a result, the town is incredibly supportive and known for its Southern hospitality, making newcomers and visitors feel especially welcome.

Home to Texas A&M University – one of the largest schools based on the student population in the nation – College Station is a vibrant location that couples a modern culture with Southern charm. Plus, it maintains a slightly suburban feel while offering top-notch city-level amenities, easily making it one of the top college towns in the US.

2. Madison, WI

Madison, Wisconsin is home to multiple colleges and universities, including the famed University of Wisconsin – Madison. The town has a youthful energy, brimming with opportunities for fun and recreation. Plus, cultural events abound, making it a favorite option among students who adore the arts and music. Madison also boasts a diverse dining scene, with a variety of restaurants, farm-to-table options, and a vibrant food culture that attracts food lovers.

Another standout point is that Madison is one of the most beautiful college towns, situated between two lakes. Tree-lined streets and lakeside campuses are just some of what the area offers. Couple that with top-notch educational experiences, and it’s no surprise that many students adore their time in Madison.

3. Ames, IA

One of the reasons Ames is one of the top college towns in the US is the number of students in the area. While the city has a larger population, more than 45 percent of residents are college students. Since that’s the case, Ames works hard to support young adults in the area.

Each fall, the arrival of students brings renewed energy and activity to Ames, making the town especially vibrant during the academic season.

Home to Iowa State University, students also get an exceptional college experience. Plus, the town itself is incredibly charming, offering up a classic feel while remaining modern. The arts community is also thriving, and there are plenty of opportunities for recreation, making it well-suited to active and inquisitive students, too.

4. Gainesville, FL

When it comes to enthusiastic communities that feel incredibly loyal to their local school, Gainesville, Florida, is easily one of the leaders. Home to the University of Florida – which has the fifth-largest student body in the nation – Gainesville boasts plenty of fantastic amenities. The university’s sports teams play a central role in fostering school spirit and bringing the community together through exciting games and events. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound, along with cultural events like arts festivals.

Another reason Gainesville is one of the best college towns in the US is how close the school is to shops, movie theaters, and other must-haves. It makes living on campus a breeze, as much of what a student needs is within walking distance.

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5. Oxford, OH

For students who are looking for the benefits of a smaller town, Oxford is an ideal choice. As a smaller town, Oxford, Ohio offers a close-knit community, lower living costs, and a more engaged campus environment compared to larger urban centers. Miami University is incredibly well-supported by locals, and there is plenty of access to critical services and shopping. The town also has a quaint feel, featuring classic brick buildings and similar features. However, while the architecture is classic, the amenities are modern, ensuring students have what they need.

Oxford also manages to combine a relaxed overall feel with a youthful vibe. Whether a student wants to lounge with a coffee or have some fun, there are options available.

6. Ithaca, NY

One of the best small college towns, Ithaca has a population of just about 30,000. However, it’s home to two major schools – Ithaca College and Cornell University. As a result, students make up a significant part of the broader population, so the town focuses on supporting them.

Ithaca, New York is also incredibly walkable, something that makes a difference for college students on and off-campus. Additionally, the town is inclusive and culture-rich, ensuring everyone feels welcome no matter where they head in the area.

Local breweries are a key part of Ithaca’s vibrant community and nightlife, offering unique spaces for residents and visitors to connect.

7. Rexburg, ID

If your student wants to find one of the safest college towns in the country, look no further than Rexburg, ID. Home of Brigham Young University – Idaho, Rexburg has an incredibly low crime rate, particularly when it comes to violent crimes. Plus, it’s viewed as a family community, partially because it’s so safe. Rexburg is also a bit isolated, which helps foster a close-knit community and a unique college experience.

Another intriguing point about Rexburg is that work opportunities for students are plentiful. Plus, the area is gorgeous. Along with a lovely town, the surrounding area is breathtaking, giving the region a rejuvenating feel that you don’t find everywhere else.

8. Bloomington, IN

Home to Indiana University, Bloomington is a beautiful town known for its scenic surroundings and vibrant community. It offers up big-city amenities with a small-town feel. Tree-lined streets add a sense of vibrance, and there’s a sense of community, unlike what you find in many other cities. Plus, there are tons of opportunities for outdoor recreation thanks to the dozens of nearby parks, multiple lakes, and miles of trails.

Bloomington, Indiana also does well on the arts and culture side. Along with concerts and theater performances, festivals are a common occurrence, giving students even more to explore.

9. Provo, UT

Provo has plenty to offer college students. Along with a lower cost of education, the city itself is surprisingly affordable. Couple that with a relaxed feel and walkability, and it’s easy to see why Provo is a popular option.

Additionally, the Provo, Utah population is more than 40 percent college students. As a result, the city ensures there’s plenty to offer younger adults, providing ample access to critical amenities and plenty of support for the school itself.

Many graduates also choose to stay in Provo after finishing their studies, drawn by the strong job market and appealing lifestyle the city offers.

10. Scottsdale, AZ

Dubbed the West’s Most Western Town, Scottsdale, Arizona is one of the best college towns to live in because of the lively energy coupled with a suburban feel. The city is also known for having some of the most bars in the area, contributing to its vibrant nightlife and social scene. Old Town adds a unique charm, punctuated with fun attractions like art galleries. The surrounding area also features plenty of parks, creating opportunities to relax.

Scottsdale is also known for its warm, sunny weather. For students who prefer to bypass the rain or chilly temperatures, that alone may help the town stand out. Plus, it’s one of the safer cities in the nation, which is a bonus.

Whether your student has their sights set on one of the best college towns in America or another city, scholarships can make nearly any school affordable. If you and your student want to learn about college scholarships, ! Take a quick trip over to to reserve a spot today.