In a recent ranking of more than 400 U.S. cities, WalletHub assessed various factors—academic, social, and economic—to identify the best college towns and cities in America. The study aimed not only to pinpoint strong academic environments but also to highlight places where students might enjoy living, engaging, and thriving both during and after college.
Orlando achieved a notable ranking, coming in 3rd among all U.S. college towns, according to the WalletHub study. A key factor in its high ranking is affordability: the total cost of tuition (including room and board) for in-state students in Orlando is estimated at about $24,668 per year, making it one of the more economical options among the studied cities.
However, affordability is just part of the story. Orlando’s strength also comes from the “enrichment for students outside of class,” meaning the city offers a wide range of non-academic opportunities—such as theme parks, shopping centers, sports clubs, recreation, and entertainment—that enhance the student experience. Additionally, Orlando performed well in job market metrics, boasting one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation and a strong job growth rate, making it viable for graduates to stay in the city after completing their studies. Tampa also received a high ranking, coming in 4th on WalletHub’s list of “Best College Towns & Cities.”
The presence of two Florida cities—Orlando and Tampa—at the top of the list highlights a broader trend: Florida is well represented among top college-town destinations. What sets Tampa apart? The city offers a vibrant urban environment and a student-oriented lifestyle, characterized by an active nightlife, diverse amenities, access to the Gulf Coast, and several higher education institutions, including the University of South Florida and the University of Tampa. Tampa’s ranking benefitted from this dynamic blend of academic opportunities, student life, and regional appeal.
The success of both Orlando and Tampa provides an interesting comparison. Orlando excels in affordability, strong job prospects after graduation, and plentiful entertainment and recreation options. In contrast, Tampa emphasizes an urban-student lifestyle within a major metropolitan area, offering rich local culture and coastal recreation. Together, they illustrate how different kinds of college towns can thrive: one focused on affordability and entertainment, the other on urban amenities and coastal living.
For prospective students deciding between the two, the choice is clear: if affordability and abundant off-campus activities are your top priorities, Orlando may have the advantage. If you prefer a more metropolitan ambiance with coastal access and varied city experiences, Tampa might be the better choice.
It’s also important to note that the appeal of staying in either city after college is enhanced by strong job growth and favorable economic indicators, which WalletHub identified as key factors. Another takeaway is how the WalletHub approach emphasizes “whole student living.” The study didn’t rank cities solely based on academic metrics; it also considered factors like social environment, cost of living, job prospects, and student-life amenities. As WalletHub’s analyst noted, “Towns with a low cost of living, plenty of activities, and large student populations can make your college experience much less stressful and much more enjoyable.”
Of course, being ranked 3rd and 4th does not mean that Orlando and Tampa are without their flaws; each city has its own trade-offs. Orlando’s affordability might be countered by high tourism and traffic, while Tampa’s urban scale may come with higher living costs or commuting challenges. Nevertheless, the WalletHub data indicates that both cities offer great value and experiences for college students compared to many other U.S. cities.
In conclusion, the inclusion of Orlando and Tampa among the top 5 college towns is significant. It highlights that Florida has more to offer than just warm weather and beaches—it provides substantial value and a vibrant student environment. For anyone considering college destinations or life in a college city, both of these cities are definitely worth considering.
