Best 9 College Towns in America

College town is a unique community everyone should live in at least once in a lifetime. They have a wide variety of individuals, cultures, foods, and activities to offer everyone who lives, works, retires, or visits.

University communities often provide a thriving employment market, excellent public transit, easily accessible medical care, and a pleasant environment for bicycling and walking. Events like this never get old since they feature anything from lectures and film festivals to massive Halloween street parties. Some cities have bustling summer festivals that span weeks. So, you can be indulged all year long, no matter your interests. Also, this type of town is full of interesting cafes, pubs, and eateries that won't break the bank.

When looking for American college residential areas, people often look out for the factors like demography and social life as well as academic resources. The percentage of the population between the ages of 18 and 35, the availability of spots to eat and drink, and the availability of sports centers can contribute to the community's social environment. Educational quality is also a key factor to consider.

Some of the most top ranked living places or towns include:

1. Iowa, IA

Home to Iowa State University and three other tertiary institutions, it has over 65,000 persons, and more than a third are enrolled in higher education. The average age is just 25.8. That's 12 years lower than the national average of 37.8. 

2. Ann Arbor, MI

This holds one of the largest and most modern college campuses, with some of the most chilly winters. Thankfully, there are enough warm and cozy University of Michigan hoodies to keep you warm. It is also understandable that over 44,000 diehard Wolverines are so devoted to the maize and blue, what with the city's seemingly endless supply of greasy late-night food joints, the city's 123-acre conservatory affectionately known as the Arb, and the excitement of football games. There are 4 tertiary institutions in the city with the average age of just 27. 

3. Fayetteville, AR

Located in Arkansas, it is home to the University of Arkansas and two other tertiary institutions. So, it's no surprise that 26% of locals are enrolled in some college or university. It has a concentration of cultural and entertainment alternatives. The city has a reputation for serving some of the nation's greatest meals, a thriving arts scene, and several live music venues along Dickson Street. The average age is 27.1

4. Austin, TX

There are few locations in the States more sought after than Austin. The University of Texas is one of the largest, and some of the greatest nightlife adventures can be found in this hip and exciting city. On Rainey Street, locals and tourists may choose from a wide variety of pubs, restaurants, and music venues. While looking for the best college city, consider moving to Austin because of its convenient location to the beautiful Lake Austin and its delicious barbecue. There are 9 tertiary institutions and the average age is 33.

5. Gainesville, FL

This is considered one of the best college towns in America. Locals claim that God must love the Florida Gators since the sun is always orange and the sky is always blue. Whether or not you buy into all that, you can't dispute that there is a lot of school pride. The Uni of Florida's vast grounds include the Butterfly Rainforest, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (also known as the Swamp).

Florida is a major research university and tourist attraction. Typical of college cities, it is populated primarily by young students. 

6. Athens, GA

There is the usual amount of tailgating and fervor at Uni of Georgia football games because the Bulldogs are a perennial powerhouse. Hangout spots per resident here are more than in any other American metropolis. What great way to recover from a night of Bulldogs win celebrations without feeling bad? Gravy-soaked biscuits and crispy fried chicken. The average age is 28.

7. Chapel Hill, NC

Tar Heels from the University of North Carolina paint the vicinity with vibrant murals to show how they like to party. Amazing soul food restaurants can be found here and are just as must-see as the Ackland Art Museum and Morehead Planetarium & Science Center. This is fast becoming a gastronomic mecca because of its abundance of restaurants serving some of the most savory food in the nation. There are 3 tertiary institutions in the city, and the average age is 25.2.

8. Bloomington, IN

Indiana University in Bloomington is one of the biggest higher education institutions in the United States. Individuals in Bloomington tend to be younger than in other locations because it concentrates on universities. I.U. Students unanimously believe that the wooded Bloomington is the best option, thanks to its quarry cliff diving, surrounding state park, and abundance of local breweries. You may find them relaxing on Lake Monroe after class or drinking at Kilroy's, one of the most interesting bars in the country. The average age is 23.8.

9. Madison, WI

Being in Wisconsin, it is a great place to visit for the water since it is located on a narrow peninsula between two beautiful lakes. There will be plenty of time to hang out on the Memorial Union Terrace with your fellow Badgers and have a cold beer while watching the boats go by. An additional compelling feature? A downtown filled with locally owned establishments, suitable for strolling. There are 2 tertiary institutions here with the average age of the inhabitants being 26.8.

While the aforementioned suggestions are quite decent, it's understandable that you might be confused about choosing the right college. In this case, seeking advice from a college transfer consultant can be incredibly helpful, as they are professionals with the expertise to guide you through the entire process with a deep understanding.

Conclusion

This list presents the best of many college cities and towns existing in the USA. They are top-ranked because residents' testimonies claim there are many benefits to enjoy, such as art galleries, shops, restaurants and other attractions for the young adults from America and all over the world. The primary focus of the students is, of course, on the level of education. But the idea of great extracurricular activities is even more compelling.

About the Author

Gray Jacobson is an education expert and blogger who also works as a writer at PapersOwl. His media presence is largely focused on highlighting the best studying opportunities for young people. He advocates for education accessibility for everyone who is interested. Gray has conducted an extensive analysis of the best universities and colleges, and this research is of great value.