You’ve had your heart set on studying in the United States for as long as you can remember, but now that you’re close to making your dream a reality, you need to make some hard decisions. Where exactly should you go? The United States is huge, and there are tons of top university towns around the country. Which one is right for you?

Our round up of the United States' top university towns to get your international degree on lock.

While there are tons to choose from—and who knows what the best state to study in the USA for international students is—we have a hunch you’ll love our take on the best college towns to live in to get your degree abroad in the United States. Read on!

Where you should study abroad in the USA (for the most “American” experience)

There are a lot of options when considering the best state to study in USA for international students, and each one has something unique to offer. Whether you want to spend your time immersed in the big city energy of New York City or yearn to feel at home while completing a degree in a small town in Wisconsin, we’ve got you covered.

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Consider what you want out of your student life in the United States as you do your research. Would you feel more comfortable in a small town where life is centered around the university and you regularly run into your fellow students and professors on the street? Are you craving a big city experience and opportunities to network with industry bigwigs? Lucky for you, both options are available! From the best small college towns to vibrant big cities, read on to discover some of the best US college towns to live in:

Best student cities in USA next year

Of course the term “best” is subjective, and with the right attitude, any of these places can be one of the best college towns to live in and experience life in the United States. That said, each of these best small college towns bring something different to the table, so take a look and see which one draws you in! 

1. Boston, Massachusetts

Pahk yah cah in Hahvahd yahd.

One of the United States’ oldest cities, Boston is an academic hub filled with students, cafes, and cultural activities. From walking tours of the North End to whale watching on the Atlantic coast to eating your weight in seafood, you’ll never be bored (or hungry!). Public transportation makes it easy to get around without a car, and when you finish that late-night study session, there’s a local pizza or taco joint guaranteed to still be open. Boston is also strongly multicultural, and with a quarter of its population born outside of the United States, you won’t have to worry about feeling out of place. 

2. Fort Collins, Colorado 

While Boulder gets all the attention, Fort Collins sneaks in under the radar as one of the best college towns to live in. Situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, studying isn’t all you’ll be doing while here. Opportunities for outdoor lovers are endless, and whether you enjoy hiking, skiing, or biking, there’s a trail nearby for you to de-stress after finals. If you prefer to stay indoors, the town is known for its craft brews and quirky coffee shops, which also double as prime study spots. If that weren’t enough, Fort Collins was recently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the United States. 

3. Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Chapel Hill is one of the top university towns on the east coast, and with only 60,000 inhabitants, it has a small town feel that international students just don’t get in bigger cities. Centered around the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, you’ll be immersed in college life from the get go. Whether you’re partaking in southern fare at Mama Dip’s restaurant or cheering on the Tar Heels at a basketball game with 20,000 other fans, you’ll instantly feel at home here. Chapel Hill is also part of the Research Triangle, a region comprising numerous universities and a thriving research scene, making it easier to transition into the workforce once you’ve got your diploma. 

4. Washington, DC

Study amongst some of the greatest thinkers in modern history while in the US capitol.

While Washington may not be small, it is one of the best student cities in USA. For students who are interested in international affairs, policy, and law, the District of Columbia is a living classroom, and there are ample opportunities to learn from research institutions, think tanks, and intergovernmental organizations. That said, the city isn’t only for government and policy nerds, and DC’s cultural scene ensures that students with all interests will find something to do every night of the week. From museums and theater performances to comedy shows and bumping nightlife, there’s something for everyone, making Washington, DC one of the best college towns to live in, hands down.  

5. New York, New York

You may envision crowded sidewalks, yellow taxis, and rumbling trains when you think of New York City, but it’s also an excellent place to obtain a degree. From art schools to engineering programs, the options in this city of over eight million inhabitants are nearly endless, and you won’t be lacking study partners, either. Though living costs in NYC can be high, international students from all over the world consider it to be one of the best student cities in USA, and the opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities are unmatched. When you’re done with your group study session and have submitted your assignments, relax by taking a stroll on the High Line or by grabbing some comfort food in Chinatown, Little Italy, or Koreatown. 

6. Madison, Wisconsin

Madison consistently ranks as one of the best college towns to live in, and once you’ve spent your afternoons doing homework on the shores of Lake Mendota, we bet you’ll agree. This Midwest city is a hub for the best and brightest in Wisconsin and is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live. In the summer, pick up some produce at the farmer’s market before moseying down State Street or biking around the Arboretum. Compared to many coastal cities, Madison is an affordable place to live and public transportation makes it easy to get around.  

7. Austin, Texas

Go to UT and help keep Austin weird.

You can’t go wrong with Austin! The capital city of Texas is consistently ranked as one of the best cities to live in the United States, and it’s a great place for students to study and gain career experience. Austin is a hub for the technology and business sectors, which means that you’ll easily get hands-on experience in your field while also getting a world-class education. You’ll also get front-row tickets to the popular South by Southwest festival, a conference built around technology, music, and film. If that’s not enough festival for you, the city also hosts an array of cultural events, from the Austin City Limits music festival to the Texas Craft Brewers festival. 

8. Portland, Oregon

Portland’s unofficial slogan is “Keep Portland Weird”, so be ready for some unusual sights in this West coast college city. Only 60 miles from the Pacific Ocean, Portland has an agreeable climate, efficient public transportation, and a host of universities and colleges that make it one of the best US college towns to live in. Lovers of both coffee and beer will find themselves overwhelmed with possibilities, and live music enthusiasts can find a show every night of the week. There’s so much going on, in fact, that finding time to study may be your biggest challenge! 

9. Ann Arbor, Michigan 

This small Midwestern city, about 50 miles west of Detroit, is the quintessential college town you’ve been searching for. Ann Arbor is consistently ranked as one of the best small college towns in the country. The University of Michigan is the city’s largest employer, meaning that you’ll be steeped in academia no matter where you go. Coffee shops and restaurants cater to students with affordable options and prime study spots, and you’re guaranteed to learn a thing or two about American football here due to the city’s big love of college sports. Make sure you ask fellow students about the tiny fairy doors sprinkled about the city, too! 

10. Bozeman, Montana 

You've never had a classroom quite like this. Montana is goals.

If you’re looking to escape city life, Bozeman is one of the best small college towns around. Located in southwestern Montana, nearly one third of the town’s population is made up of students, so you won’t be the only one hitting the books during finals week. Students in Bozeman study hard but they also like to play hard, and outdoors lovers of all types are welcome here. Depending on the season, you can spend the weekend mountain biking, rock climbing, or skiing. Just make sure you find time to finish your assignments! 

11. Savannah, Georgia 

Established even before the United States became a country, Savannah is a city steeped in history. From colonial mansions to large verdant squares, the city gives off a relaxing atmosphere despite its busy nature. Student housing is sprinkled throughout the city’s historic district, and when you need a study break, there’s always a park or a museum right around the corner. For longer weekend trips, check out Tybee Island for some sun and sand-filled relaxation. When it comes to art, history, and southern culture, Savannah is by far one of the best college towns to live in and call home. 

12. Burlington, Vermont 

Just south of the Canadian border in New England, Burlington is a small college town that instantly feels welcoming. Whether you’re strolling down the pedestrian-friendly Church Street or kayaking on Lake Champlain, you’ll be motivated to finish your homework so you can get outside and enjoy the city’s natural surroundings. Though there’s enough to keep you busy here, Montreal is only a two hour drive away if you get a craving for big city life (or a heaping plate of poutine). 

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Which of these top university towns will YOU choose?

GoAbroad... and Michelle Obama... think you should go to college in the United States!

The United States is a huge country and choosing the perfect college town can feel overwhelming with so many options. While there are big differences when it comes to regional climate and culture, the good news is that no matter where you end up, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in American culture and advance your education at the same time. 

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