Austin, Texas, October 27, 2025
News Summary
Austin, Texas, has once again clinched the title of the best college town in America according to a WalletHub study. The city tops the rankings due to its strong economic environment, low unemployment rates, and a high job growth rate. Additionally, Austin’s commitment to higher education is showcased by its prominent institutions, including the University of Texas at Austin. The study evaluated 415 cities against various academic, social, and economic metrics, placing Austin ahead of Ann Arbor, Orlando, Tampa, and Raleigh.
Austin, Texas, has been ranked as the best college town in America for 2026 in a study conducted by WalletHub. This marks another year of distinction for the city, which has consistently excelled in this ranking, previously topping the list for six consecutive years.
The WalletHub study analyzed 415 cities, using 31 metrics that assessed various academic, social, and economic opportunities available to students. Key factors contributing to Austin’s top score included its exceptional economic environment, a notably low unemployment rate, and a strong annual job growth rate. The city’s commitment to higher education is reflected in its array of institutions, including the prestigious University of Texas at Austin and Huston-Tillotson University.
In addition, Austin ranks 18th nationwide for the quality of higher education, a significant marker among more than 400 cities evaluated. For students considering finances, the average in-state tuition, including room and board, amounts to $31,433 per year, placing Austin as the 85th most affordable city in terms of college expenses across the country.
Austin’s vibrant lifestyle further enhances its appeal as a college destination. The city offers an abundance of attractions, sports clubs, and shopping centers, creating a well-rounded environment that helps students to manage stress and engage in recreational activities outside their studies.
Finishing behind Austin in the WalletHub rankings, several other cities made the list of the top five college towns: Ann Arbor, Michigan secured second place, followed by Orlando, Florida in third, Tampa, Florida in fourth, and Raleigh, North Carolina in fifth. These cities were also assessed on the same principles of academic and economic opportunities, alongside a vibrant social environment.
While Texas boasts Austin’s top position, other cities within the state fared less favorably in the study. College Station ranked 45th, followed by San Antonio at 65th, Lubbock at 108th, San Marcos at 123rd, Dallas at 132nd, and El Paso at 149th. These rankings highlight the competitive nature of college towns, both within Texas and nationwide.
The WalletHub study incorporated insights from polling 11 experts who evaluated the cities based on criteria focused on affordability, social environment, and academic and economic opportunities. Each city was ranked on a scale from 1 to 100 based on the specified categories, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of what each locale offers to students and their families.
Austin continues to be a beacon for prospective students and their families, providing not only educational opportunities but also a quality lifestyle that helps prepare them for the future.
FAQ Section
What factors did WalletHub consider for the rankings?
WalletHub assessed 31 metrics, focusing on academic, social, and economic opportunities, such as cost of living, job market stability, and recreational amenities.
How does Austin’s cost of living compare to other college towns?
Austin’s in-state tuition, including room and board, is approximately $31,433 per year, making it the 85th cheapest among college towns in the United States.
Which other cities were in the top five college towns?
In addition to Austin, the top five college towns are Ann Arbor, Michigan (2nd), Orlando, Florida (3rd), Tampa, Florida (4th), and Raleigh, North Carolina (5th).
How often does Austin top the WalletHub college town rankings?
Austin has topped the WalletHub college town rankings for six consecutive years.
| City | WalletHub Rank | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Austin, Texas | 1 | Economic environment, low unemployment, high job growth, quality of education, recreational amenities |
| Ann Arbor, Michigan | 2 | Academic excellence, vibrant college culture |
| Orlando, Florida | 3 | Rich tourist attractions, diverse job opportunities |
| Tampa, Florida | 4 | Outdoor activities, cultural festivals |
| Raleigh, North Carolina | 5 | Strong tech industry, community colleges |
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Additional Resources
- KXAN Austin
- Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
- Statesman
- Google Search: Austin Texas college town ranking
- CultureMap Austin
- Google Scholar: Austin Texas college town
- FOX 7 Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Texas college town
- Southern Living
- Google News: Austin Texas college town
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
