Best big college towns in America

Published 8:37 pm Monday, April 3, 2023

Best big college towns in America

Every year, students across the country must make an agonizing decision: where to go to college. The choices are endless: Big university or small private school? Close to home or far away? Urban life or tiny town? Even for those committed to certain ideas, choices abound.

College towns of all shapes and sizes often make major impacts on their surroundings. Rent is typically more expensive in college towns (and unfortunately, it’s only going up). But that doesn’t deter people from moving in. Many college towns have grown significantly in recent years, which has affected everything from income equality to state politics.

Some of those developments are most apparent in big-city college towns. Stacker identified the 50 best big-city college towns using the Best College Towns in America report from WalletHub, published in November 2023. Towns and cities were rated using 31 metrics, including housing cost, cost of higher education, city accessibility, crime rate, and median income of part-time workers.

Those metrics were broken into three ranked categories: wallet friendliness, social environment, and academic and economic opportunities. Every city in the rankings has at least 300,000 residents and a university or college population of at least 7,500 students. Some locations have a number of schools that fit the criteria, while others have one flagship university.

Read on to learn of the best big college towns in America.

View of the Memphis Main Street with Christmas decorations.

Nina Alizada // Shutterstock

#50. Memphis, Tennessee

– Total score: 47.92
– Wallet friendliness rank: 35
– Social environment rank: 226
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 306

Beyond being the historic home to music legends like Al Green, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash, Memphis, Tennessee, is a bustling southern city with plenty to offer. Home to both public and private schools, including the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, and Christian Brothers University, Memphis hosts more than 40,000 students when school is in session. From taking advantage of the blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll live music scenes to exploring Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, students have all kinds of ways to enjoy this prime location.

Large script sign for Cleveland with skyscraper buildings in the background.

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#49. Cleveland

– Total score: 47.96
– Wallet friendliness rank: 111
– Social environment rank: 157
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 307

Nestled on the shore of Lake Erie, picturesque Cleveland is home to several colleges and universities, including Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland State University, which offer educational opportunities in both the private and public sectors. When not in class, students can check out one of the town’s eight lakefront parks or 100-plus hiking trails for a taste of the great outdoors. Alternatively, Cleveland boasts plenty of indoor attractions, such as the famous Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Aerial view of Milwaukee looking west towards the University of Wisconsin.

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#48. Milwaukee

– Total score: 47.98
– Wallet friendliness rank: 171
– Social environment rank: 123
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 303

Milwaukee is home to the state’s second largest institution, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, in addition to several smaller schools, including Marquette University and the Milwaukee School of Engineering. Students of drinking age can imbibe in the city’s famous brewery tours at top brands such as Miller, while younger students can still enjoy plenty of activities. For instance, the city is home to dozens of yearly festivals celebrating food and drink, music, Pride, and more.

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#47. Louisville, Kentucky

– Total score: 50.55
– Wallet friendliness rank: 173
– Social environment rank: 104
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 245

Students attending any of the major educational institutions in Louisville, Kentucky—including the University of Louisville, Spalding University, Bellarmine University, and Simmons College of Kentucky, a Historically Black Colleges and Universities member—have good reason to love their school’s location. Not only is the city home to party-heavy annual events such as the Kentucky Derby, but it also enjoys a vibrant indie music scene and a park system designed by Frederick Olmsted, who planned New York’s Central Park. Like Kentucky’s other big city of Lexington, Louisville has strong traditions centered around college sports, particularly UofL’s Cardinals.

Aerial of a large University in the Phoenix suburb of Tempe.

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#46. Phoenix

– Total score: 48.39
– Wallet friendliness rank: 212
– Social environment rank: 85
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 285

Phoenix may be notorious for its scorching heat, but that doesn’t mean students of Grand Canyon University and the neighboring Arizona State University and Arizona Christian University won’t find plenty to love. The unique climate allows the Valley of the Sun to boast attractions such as the Desert Botanical Garden and Camelback Mountain, while students can also take advantage of the city’s diverse culture. The Heard Museum has 12 galleries of Native American art and installations as well as an outdoor sculpture collection.

GJGKPhotography // Shutterstock

#45. New Orleans

– Total score: 48.28
– Wallet friendliness rank: 266
– Social environment rank: 58
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 266

Several public and private institutions call the Big Easy home: Tulane University, Loyola University New Orleans, and Xavier University of Louisiana. There is also the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, which hosts six of the university’s schools, including the medical program. New Orleans’ storied tradition of street celebrations—known as second lines—and live music, warm climate, and arts scene make it a popular destination for college students from around the country, many of whom stay after graduation to work in tourism, energy, and health care.

SeanPavone // Shutterstock

#44. Oklahoma City

– Total score: 48.89
– Wallet friendliness rank: 102
– Social environment rank: 213
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 263

Home to the public University of Oklahoma, University of Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, and Langston University (the state’s only HBCU) as well as the private Oklahoma City University and Oklahoma Christian University, Oklahoma City has something for everybody. In addition to its higher learning institutions, the city is home to the Oklahoma City Thunder professional basketball team, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Bricktown is a popular nightlife destination where students can find everything from live banjo music to hip wine bars.

AndrewZarivny // Shutterstock

#43. Sacramento, California

– Total score: 51.43
– Wallet friendliness rank: 281
– Social environment rank: 21
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 206

The educational offerings in Sacramento, California, are surprisingly limited: California State University, Sacramento is the only traditional four-year college in the capital city. Other institutions with satellites in the area include the University of San Francisco, the University of the Pacific, and the University of California, Davis within a short drive. But what the city lacks in higher education opportunities it makes up for in its growing popularity as a cultural destination. And compared with the nearby Bay Area, Sacramento’s cost of living is relatively affordable.

JamesKirkikis // Shutterstock

#42. Anaheim, California

– Total score: 49.13
– Wallet friendliness rank: 336
– Social environment rank: 126
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 74

More than just the home of Disneyland, Anaheim, California, serves as host to the private, for-profit Anaheim University, which caters to graduate students, as well as Southern California Institute of Technology. The city’s location in the greater Los Angeles area means students have access to other major universities, including the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of Southern California. Popular entertainment choices for students include the Packing District, anchored by the historic Packing House, a hangout for locals and tourists alike.

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#41. San Antonio

– Total score: 48.49
– Wallet friendliness rank: 91
– Social environment rank: 91
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 358

While Texas’ two major public universities—the University of Texas and Texas A&M University—have campuses in San Antonio, there are also a host of private schools, including Trinity University and St. Mary’s University. San Antonio is a popular destination for people within the state and across the country, with a major sports franchise (the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs), a vibrant nightlife scene, and numerous historic attractions, such as the Alamo and River Walk. These features, along with a robust culinary scene, make the city an exciting, if distracting, place to attend college.

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#40. Chicago

– Total score: 48.78
– Wallet friendliness rank: 293
– Social environment rank: 64
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 217

A number of notable educational institutions call Chicago home, including the celebrated University of Chicago. Other schools include Loyola University Chicago, DePaul University, the University of Illinois Chicago, and Northwestern University in nearby Evanston. The city’s diverse cultural and recreational offerings, solid public transportation system, and ties to numerous industries, from media to banking, make it a popular choice for those seeking a first-class urban college experience.

CharlesS.Askar // Shutterstock

#39. Omaha, Nebraska

– Total score: 51.79
– Wallet friendliness rank: 201
– Social environment rank: 128
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 160

Omaha, Nebraska, is a backdrop to many of the state’s educational institutions, including the University of Nebraska Omaha, Creighton University, and Clarkson College. The University of Nebraska Medical Center is also located there. With its low cost of living and various historic landmarks, Omaha offers an appealing blend of urban and suburban. The Old Market is home to everything from pubs and taverns to art galleries and live music venues.

ehrlif // Shutterstock

#38. Lexington, Kentucky

– Total score: 50.79
– Wallet friendliness rank: 125
– Social environment rank: 116
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 254

Known for its lively college athletics scene, Lexington, Kentucky, is home to the University of Kentucky, which also happens to be the city’s largest employer. Transylvania University, one of the nation’s oldest colleges, is also located there, along with Sullivan University and Commonwealth Baptist College. Students flood the area for its low cost of living and variety of manufacturing job opportunities, including with Toyota Kentucky and Lockheed Martin.

ChrisTPehlivan // Shutterstock

#37. Indianapolis

– Total score: 49.55
– Wallet friendliness rank: 176
– Social environment rank: 138
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 249

Indiana’s most populous city includes tens of thousands of students scattered across several institutions, including Indiana University Indianapolis, Purdue University in Indianapolis, Butler University, the University of Indianapolis, and Marian University. Indianapolis’ seven cultural districts offer history and a buzzing culinary scene. With a revamped public transit system in the works, Indianapolis is also host to welcome distractions from studying, including museums, parks, and sporting events.

AlexeyUlashchick // Shutterstock

#36. San Jose, California

– Total score: 49.64
– Wallet friendliness rank: 379
– Social environment rank: 35
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 107

Arguably the tech epicenter of Silicon Valley, San José, California, is a popular destination among college students seeking degrees in related fields as well as those who want to head to nearby San Francisco for entertainment. San José State University calls this city home, and the prestigious Santa Clara University and world-renowned Stanford University are close by. There are multiple light rail and train systems, and the high concentration of tech companies provides a wide selection of jobs and internships for students.

CKFoto // Shutterstock

#35. Minneapolis

– Total score: 51.87
– Wallet friendliness rank: 249
– Social environment rank: 41
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 193

Minneapolis is a cultural center of the Midwest and home to a number of colleges and universities, including the University of Minnesota, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, and North Central University. The city has a celebrated parks system that encourages activity among residents, and representation in all major North American sports leagues. Light rail and commuter lines link the city’s neighborhoods with nearby suburbs, too.

Sean Pavone // Shutterstock

#34. Tulsa, Oklahoma

– Total score: 49.44
– Wallet friendliness rank: 133
– Social environment rank: 175
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 250

Once known as the Oil Capital of the World, Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a medium-sized city with small-town and big-metropolis vibes. Tulsa has hosted college students for over 130 years and preserved some of the best of its history. In the Deco District, old buildings delight locals and visitors, while foodies can explore unique gastronomic creations on Cherry Street. Several technology, manufacturing, energy, and aerospace companies are headquartered in Tulsa, which makes it an optimal place to find internships, mentors, and corporate job opportunities.

NickFox // Shutterstock

#33. Denver

– Total score: 49.8
– Wallet friendliness rank: 303
– Social environment rank: 16
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 242

The Mile High City is home to students attending the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and Regis University, among other institutions. The city is known for its access to numerous year-round outdoor activities, and a good public transit system covers much of the area. Denver’s status as home to thousands of students is reflected in its cuisine: The first-ever Chipotle is near the University of Denver campus.

CeriBreeze // Shutterstock

#32. Fort Worth, Texas

– Total score: 48.84
– Wallet friendliness rank: 242
– Social environment rank: 149
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 201

Fort Worth, Texas, and the surrounding area are home to dozens of institutions of higher education, including public universities such as the University of North Texas, and smaller private institutions such as Texas Christian University and Texas Wesleyan University. The major transportation hub features the headquarters of American Airlines, GM Financial, and BNSF Railway, among others.

Eileen_10 // Shutterstock

#31. Philadelphia

– Total score: 50.59
– Wallet friendliness rank: 295
– Social environment rank: 93
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 142

Philadelphia is home to some of the nation’s oldest and most storied educational institutions: the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, and Drexel University. The city’s large student population is reflected in the number of bars and clubs scattered about Center City and East Passyunk, and historic tourist attractions and museums provide something for those of all interests. Major industries include health care, financial services, and biotech.

View of the college campus of Howard University.

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#30. Washington DC

– Total score: 49.79
– Wallet friendliness rank: 388
– Social environment rank: 19
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 92

The nation’s capital is home to several colleges and universities, including Georgetown University, George Washington University, American University, and HBCU Howard University, with education options for all kinds of students. In Washington D.C., students can explore the rich history and beautiful architecture central to the United States, from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial to the Smithsonian Institution. Keep in mind that the cost of living is high at 148% above the national average.

TonoBalaguer // Shutterstock

#29. San Francisco

– Total score: 50.06
– Wallet friendliness rank: 388
– Social environment rank: 10
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 120

San Francisco proper is home to two major four-year schools: the private University of San Francisco and the public San Francisco State University. Other nearby schools include Stanford University, Saint Mary’s College of California, and the University of California, Berkeley. There is also the storied University of California, San Francisco, a medical school and research facility. The benefits of attending college by the Golden Gate are numerous: myriad year-round outdoor opportunities, world-famous cuisine and nightlife, and dozens of cultural and tourist attractions. The downsides are an extremely high cost of living and one of the nation’s worst housing shortages, making it impossible for some students to reside within city limits.

Sean Pavone // Shutterstock

#28. St. Louis

– Total score: 54.99
– Wallet friendliness rank: 128
– Social environment rank: 90
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 140

St. Louis is an old city with a compelling history as the Gateway to the West. It sits on the Mississippi River, just several miles south of the confluence with the Missouri River. It is a relatively small town, which makes it ideal for walking. Baseball is huge, and there is a whole culture around celebrating St. Louis’ favorite sport. The nightlife—with beer and live music—attracts college students from the many higher education institutions in the area. Washington University is the most prestigious.

seanPavone // Shutterstock

#27. Los Angeles

– Total score: 49.61
– Wallet friendliness rank: 343
– Social environment rank: 89
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 114

Los Angeles is really more a series of areas or neighborhoods than one distinct college town. Within its city limits, it has several institutions of higher education, from the massive University of California, Los Angeles, to the private Loyola Marymount University, Mount Saint Mary’s University, and Occidental College. Given its proximity to Hollywood, there are also several film schools. Cultural and recreational opportunities are aplenty, from world-renowned museums to beaches.

Ritu Manoj Jethani // Shutterstock

#26. Virginia Beach, Virginia

– Total score: 50.87
– Wallet friendliness rank: 224
– Social environment rank: 113
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 182

A 3-mile oceanfront boardwalk is the main attraction of the city where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean: Virginia Beach, Virginia. In recent years, the city’s already pleasant coastal lifestyle has been spruced up by a bustling food and arts scene, a perfect complement to its centuries-old maritime history. More than 50,000 post-secondary students attend school in the area, which includes Regent University and Virginia Wesleyan University.

KenWolter // Shutterstock

#25. Dallas

– Total score: 50.51
– Wallet friendliness rank: 226
– Social environment rank: 147
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 168

Dallas is home to a number of public and private institutions, including the University of Texas at Dallas, Southern Methodist University, and HBCU Paul Quinn College. The frozen margarita was created in the Big D, which also features a celebrated barbecue scene. The city’s downtown Arts District is popular among visitors and residents alike.

Matt Gush // Shutterstock

#24. Bakersfield, California

– Total score: 51.85
– Wallet friendliness rank: 177
– Social environment rank: 199
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 92

The agriculture, energy, and oil industries prosper in Bakersfield, California, located on the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley and west of the Sierra Nevadas. The scenery of that part of the Golden State is breathtaking, and students attending California State University, Bakersfield, or Bakersfield College can enjoy various leisure options, including a brewery trail and farmer’s markets.

ESBProfessional // Shutterstock

#23. Jacksonville, Florida

– Total score: 51.24
– Wallet friendliness rank: 118
– Social environment rank: 121
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 237

Jacksonville, Florida, is home to several of the state’s public educational institutions, including the University of North Florida, Florida State College at Jacksonville, and the University of Florida’s Health Science Center. Private institutions include Jacksonville University and Edward Waters University. A port town, Jacksonville offers jobs in the transportation and shipping industries as well as the financial services field.

ErwinWidmer // Shutterstock

#22. Nashville, Tennessee

– Total score: 51.43
– Wallet friendliness rank: 288
– Social environment rank: 98
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 128

The most highly ranked college in Nashville, Tennessee, is Vanderbilt University, home to around 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Nashville also boasts a couple of HBCUs: Tennessee State University and Fisk University. Nashville’s reputation as a lively tourist destination extends to its status as a top-notch college town, with students enjoying a wide selection of live music, nightlife, and Southern cooking.

Lucky-Photographer // Shutterstock

#21. Tucson, Arizona

– Total score: 51.89
– Wallet friendliness rank: 75
– Social environment rank: 38
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 323

Arizona’s second-largest city is home to the University of Arizona, one of the largest schools in the country and Tucson’s largest employer. Tucson is popular with older adults, too, and features a national park, national forest, mountain range, and other outdoor destinations as well as trendy bars and restaurants—making it the choice for nearly 50,000 students.

NateHovee // Shutterstock

#20. Houston

– Total score: 52.4
– Wallet friendliness rank: 99
– Social environment rank: 122
– Academic and economic opportunities rank: 211

The University of Houston’s flagship campus as well as its Downtown and Clear Lake campuses are based in Houston along with Texas Southern University and the private Rice University. The city is a hub for the energy sector, with ConocoPhillips, Halliburton, and Phillips 66 headquarters. Space City, the country’s fourth-largest metropolis, is also home to diverse arts, culinary, and sports scenes.