Stanford University is located in Palo Alto, California, which ranks as the #10 college town.

Best College Towns Of 2025

Looking for the best college towns as defined by Gen Z? This generation’s priorities redefine what “best” truly means, offering a more contemporary take on the ideal college experience. Many students are now looking for cities that offer great balance in both their academic and personal lives.

Apartment search platform RentCafe analyzed 395 towns, all with populations over 10,000, to crown the top college locations. They narrowed it down using twelve factors such as tuition costs, quality of life, affordability, outdoor activities, graduation rates, and even air quality.

TOP THREE COLLEGE TOWNS FOR GEN Z

In first place, for the second year in a row, is Bozeman, Montana. This charming town is home to Montana State University (MSU), and offers a healthy blend of academic rigor and outdoor adventure. MSU excels in research, with standout programs in snow science and excellent industry partnerships. With Yellowstone National Park just around the corner, it’s a magnet for researchers and outdoor enthusiasts. About 65% of its residents hold college degrees, and 85% of students get a helping hand with financial aid, making the town both educated and accessible. Living here has an average cost of $3,957 per month.

Second place goes to Pullman, Washington, the small town home to Washington State University. Pullman offers scenic trails like the Downtown Riverwalk and hosts unique events like the National Lentil Festival. With a cost of living at $3,426 — the most affordable of the top three — plus excellent air quality, it’s ideal for students. Pullman also leads in offering financial aid, with 87% of students receiving grants or scholarships.

In third place is Gainesville, Florida, known to be a creative and innovative city. The University of Florida supports startups and research through its renowned UF Innovate program, and Gainesville offers 3,200 acres of parks. The cost of living is around $4,013, and 84% of the students receive aid. In this city, students pay an average of $5,529 in tuition.

Next Page: Harvard joins the tuition-free movement

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