WalletHub Names Top College Towns for 2027

The annual analysis evaluates 415 U.S. cities based on academic opportunities, social environments, and affordability.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Higher Education

Bold vector editorial illustration of a brick archway framing an autumn tree, representing the intellectual environment of top college towns. — WalletHub’s 2027 college town rankings place Austin at the top, with Plano recognized as a leading destination for academic and economic opportunity. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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WalletHub has released its 2027 rankings for the best college towns in the United States, with Austin claiming the top spot overall. Plano also earned recognition, landing as the 54th best college town nationwide and the 3rd best in Texas.

Why it matters

These rankings provide prospective students with a comparative look at how different cities balance academic potential with the high costs of student life. By assessing metrics like social environment and economic opportunity, the report helps students weigh the value of their education against the local cost of living.

To qualify for the 2027 list, each city was required to host a college population of at least 7,500 students. The study notes that annual student living expenses can climb to over $39,000.

The players

WalletHub

This personal finance website regularly publishes consumer-focused reports and rankings on topics ranging from education to financial health.

Collin College

This public community college system serves the Plano area and maintains a large student body of over 60,000 enrolled individuals.

The details

Plano performed strongest in academic and economic opportunities, where it ranked 25th nationally, though it placed 223rd for social environment and 271st for wallet-friendliness. The city also hosts Collin College, which supports an annual enrollment exceeding 60,000 students.

The rankings represent the best college towns for 2027.

Culture Shift

The rankings highlight a growing emphasis on holistic student living, where academic prestige is increasingly measured alongside urban affordability and social access. As the cost of education rises, students are trending toward selecting cities that offer tangible post-graduation economic returns.

For students and families, the rankings serve as a practical tool to forecast potential housing and living expenses, which can exceed $39,000 annually. These figures help in budgeting for the total cost of attendance beyond just tuition.

The takeaway

Students should consider the balance between a city's academic prestige and the practical burden of living costs when selecting a school. Looking beyond the tuition cost to include total annual living expenses is essential for long-term financial stability.