Orlando has earned national recognition as one of the best college towns in the country, coming in at No. 3 on WalletHub’s 2025–2026 list of Best College Towns & Cities in America. The annual report from the personal finance company analyzed more than 400 cities across the United States to identify the best places for students to live, learn, and thrive.
The study examined a wide range of factors, including academic quality, affordability, social opportunities, and career prospects. WalletHub noted that the city in which a college is located can play a major role in a student’s academic success, personal growth, and financial stability. With living expenses for college students reaching more than $36,000 a year on average, the analysis emphasized the importance of choosing a city that offers both a reasonable cost of living and strong educational opportunities.
Orlando Leads Florida’s College Towns
Orlando ranked third overall, just behind Austin, Texas, and Ann Arbor, Michigan, making it the highest-ranked Florida city on the list. Tampa followed in fourth place, and Gainesville rounded out the top 10.
WalletHub credited Orlando’s strong showing to its combination of affordability, educational quality, and vibrant student life. The city is home to the University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the nation’s largest universities, as well as several other colleges and trade schools. According to the study, Orlando offers one of the lowest average tuition and room-and-board costs for in-state students in major metropolitan areas, along with a solid ranking for school quality.
Beyond academics, Orlando’s abundance of entertainment options, cultural attractions, and community activities also contributed to its high placement. The city’s large number of restaurants, coffee shops, sports clubs, and entertainment venues per capita makes it especially appealing to students seeking a balance between study and social life.
Tampa and Gainesville Also Make the List
Two other Florida cities joined Orlando in the national top 10. Tampa, home to the University of South Florida and the University of Tampa, ranked fourth overall thanks to its dynamic urban environment and active student community. Gainesville, known for its strong identity as a traditional college town and as the home of the University of Florida, secured the tenth spot.
Both Orlando and Tampa also ranked among the top 10 cities in the country for social environment, underscoring Florida’s reputation as a vibrant and student-friendly state.
Though widely known for its theme parks and tourism industry, Orlando continues to grow as a center for education and innovation. The city’s mix of affordability, academic opportunity, and entertainment makes it an attractive choice for students seeking a well-rounded college experience.