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9 Best Pennsylvania College Towns For Universities, Student Life & Career Opportunities
Study smarter, live bigger in Pennsylvania.
Table of Content
- Best Pennsylvania College Towns for Students Overview
- 1. Philadelphia - Pennsylvania’s Ultimate Student City
- Philadelphia City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in Philadelphia
- Why Philadelphia is Great for Students
- 2. Pittsburgh - Best for Research & Technology
- Pittsburgh City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in Pittsburgh
- Why Pittsburgh is Great for Students
- 3. State College - Best Traditional College Town
- State College City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in State College
- Why State College is Great for Students
- 4. Bethlehem - Best for Engineering Students
- Bethlehem City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in Bethlehem
- Why Bethlehem is Great for Students
- 5. West Chester - Best Suburban Student Environment
- West Chester City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in West Chester
- Why West Chester is Great for Students
- 6. Lancaster - Best for Arts & Affordability
- Lancaster City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in Lancaster
- Why Lancaster is Great for Students
- 7. Carlisle - Best Peaceful College Town
- Carlisle City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in Carlisle
- Why Carlisle is Great for Students
- 8. Villanova - Best for Business & Academics
- Villanova City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in Villanova
- Why Villanova is Great for Students
- 9. Indiana - Best Affordable Student City
- Indiana City Stats
- University Details
- Student Apartments in Indiana
- Why Indiana is Great for Students
- Which Pennsylvania College Town is Best for You?
The Pennsylvania College Towns rank among the top student cities in America due to their renowned educational institutions, thriving student cultures, historical significance, and fun-filled nightlife. For any student seeking a balance between education and entertainment, Pennsylvania provides it all, from famous academic centers such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to quaint college towns like State College and Bethlehem.
It is well known that Pennsylvania has a highly developed economy, rich history, rapidly developing healthcare and IT sectors, as well as good universities. Industries like healthcare, finance, education, IT, and production contribute to the low unemployment rate of 4.2% (BLS). Pennsylvania also has a wide variety of cities, ranging from fast-paced urban cities to calm suburban college towns. Cost of living in Pennsylvania usually varies from $1,420.4 per month, excluding rent (Numbeo).
Best Pennsylvania College Towns for Students Overview
| College Town | Major University | City Population | Student Population | Average Student Rent | Best Known For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | UPenn, Temple University, Drexel | ~1.6 million | 300,000+ | $900–$2,400 | Nightlife, internships, student life |
| Pittsburgh | Carnegie Mellon, University of Pittsburgh | ~300,000 | 80,000+ | $850–$1,900 | Tech, healthcare, research |
| State College | Penn State University | ~40,000 | 45,000+ | $700–$1,500 | Traditional college-town culture |
| Bethlehem | Lehigh University | ~75,000 | 10,000+ | $800–$1,600 | Engineering, student community |
| West Chester | West Chester University | ~21,000 | 17,000+ | $850–$1,500 | Safety, suburban student life |
| Lancaster | Franklin & Marshall College | ~59,000 | 8,000+ | $750–$1,400 | Arts, affordability |
| Carlisle | Dickinson College | ~20,000 | 3,000+ | $700–$1,300 | Liberal arts, peaceful environment |
| Villanova | Villanova University | ~11,000 | 10,000+ | $1,000–$2,000 | Business, proximity to Philadelphia |
| Indiana | Indiana University of Pennsylvania | ~13,000 | 10,000+ | $600–$1,200 | Affordable student living |
1. Philadelphia - Pennsylvania’s Ultimate Student City
Philadelphia is one of the best cities for students in America due to its excellent universities, student diversity, historical areas, and vibrant nightlife. This Pennsylvania college town offers museums, concert halls, coffee shops, sports culture, as well as plenty of internship opportunities in finance, health care, business, and technology.
Philadelphia City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~1.6 million |
| Student Population | 300,000+ |
| Average Rent | $900–$2,400/month |
| Cost of Living | Expensive |
| Walkability | Excellent |
| Best Areas for Students | University City, Center City, Fishtown |
University Details
The University of Pennsylvania ranks among the best universities of the Ivy League. Some of the notable fields in this university include business, medicine, law, and engineering. The university gets its Ivy League title through its notable alumni at the University of Pennsylvania, like Warren Buffett, an investor, and Elizabeth Banks, a notable actress. The other two universities in Pennsylvania College Towns, Temple University and Drexel University, are noted for their excellence in media, health sciences, business, law, and cooperative education, respectively.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Pennsylvania | 1740 | ~28,000 students | Business, Medicine, Law |
| Temple University | 1884 | ~37,000 students | Media, Healthcare, Business |
| Drexel University | 1891 | ~24,000 students | Engineering, Co-op Programs |
Student Apartments in Philadelphia
Amber helps students find safe and verified student apartments in Philadelphia near leading universities. With amenities like CCTV’s, lounges, and fitness centres, some top options include:
- Skyline Apartments, Philadelphia: $725/Month
- University Village Temple, Philadelphia: $479/Month
- EVO at Cira Centre South, Philadelphia: $1170/Month
Why Philadelphia is Great for Students
- Huge student population and diversified culture
- Philadelphia provides students with internship and networking possibilities with renowned institutions, including the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Comcast, Independence Blue Cross, and the University of Pennsylvania Health System.
- Lively nightlife and music industry
- Good access to transport and walkability
- Great history and cultural places
2. Pittsburgh - Best for Research & Technology
Pittsburgh has evolved into one of America’s top tech and research centers. This Pennsylvania college town provides students with quality education at more affordable costs than other big cities, and career opportunities in robotics, healthcare, and engineering.
Pittsburgh City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~300,000 |
| Student Population | 80,000+ |
| Average Rent | $850–$1,900/month |
| Cost of Living | Moderate |
| Walkability | Good |
| Best Areas for Students | Oakland, Shadyside |
University Details
Carnegie Mellon University is well-known worldwide for its Computer Science, Robotics, and Engineering programs. The University of Pittsburgh enjoys a high reputation in Medicine, Healthcare, Business, and Research.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Mellon University | 1900 | ~14,000 students | Robotics, AI, Computer Science |
| University of Pittsburgh | 1787 | ~34,000 students | Medicine, Research, Business |
Student Apartments in Pittsburgh
Amber helps students find safe and verified student apartments in Pittsburgh near leading universities. Some options include:
- HERE Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh: $1499/Month
- SkyVue, Pittsburgh: $1175/Month
- Bracken House North Shore, Pittsburgh: $2027/Month
Why Pittsburgh is Great for Students
- Technology and Robotics Industry
- The cost of living is relatively lower in Philadelphia compared to the cost of living in student centers on the East Coast, such as New York, Boston, and Washington.
- Healthcare, research opportunities
- Philadelphia provides students with an array of sports activities, team sports, concerts, festivals, and entertainment all year long.
- Graduate job prospects
3. State College - Best Traditional College Town
State College centers itself largely on Penn State University, making it one of the best examples of a college town in the nation. This Pennsylvania college town is very active, particularly when football season rolls around.
State College City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~40,000 |
| Student Population | 45,000+ |
| Average Rent | $700–$1,500/month |
| Cost of Living | Moderate |
| Walkability | Excellent |
| Best Areas for Students | Downtown State College |
University Details
Pennsylvania State University is considered to be one of the top-ranked public universities in the United States and is distinguished in fields like engineering, business, journalism, agriculture, and sports management.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania State University | 1855 | ~88,000 students | Engineering, Business, Journalism |
Student Apartments in State College
Amber helps students find safe and verified off-campus housing in State College near leading universities. Some options include:
- Rise At State College, State College: $1349/Month
- The Valley, State College: $959/Month
- The View, State College: $959/Month
Why State College is Great for Students
- Classic American college-town vibe
- Huge school spirit and sports culture
- Strong academic reputation
- Walkable student-centered downtown
- Active nightlife and campus events
4. Bethlehem - Best for Engineering Students
Bethlehem is a city that mixes history with the educational appeal of an academic environment. This Pennsylvania college town provides students with arts festivals like Musikfest, Bethlehem Bach Festival, and Celtic Classic, coffee shops, music, and a rising number of students.
Bethlehem City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~75,000 |
| Student Population | 10,000+ |
| Average Rent | $800–$1,600/month |
| Cost of Living | Moderate |
| Walkability | Good |
| Best Areas for Students | South Bethlehem |
University Details
Lehigh University enjoys an excellent reputation in engineering, business, computer science, and entrepreneurship education.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lehigh University | 1865 | ~7,000 students | Engineering, Business |
Student Apartments in Bethlehem
Amber helps students find safe and verified student housing in Bethlehem near leading universities. With amenities like a dog park, secured parking, and a coffee bar top options include:
- The Marshall Valley, Bethlehem: $2580/Month
Why Bethlehem is Great for Students
- Strong engineering programs
- Safe and friendly student environment
- Historic downtown with beautiful architecture and arts culture, with SteelStacks
- Good balance between academics and social life
- Growing internship opportunities
5. West Chester - Best Suburban Student Environment
West Chester provides its students a safe and exciting college-town life in a suburban setting with proximity to Philadelphia. There are plenty of coffee shops, dining establishments, and recreational facilities for the students in this Pennsylvania college town.
West Chester City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~21,000 |
| Student Population | 17,000+ |
| Average Rent | $850–$1,500/month |
| Cost of Living | Moderate |
| Walkability | Good |
| Best Areas for Students | Downtown West Chester |
University Details
The West Chester area is recognized for its programs in business, education, psychology, and health sciences.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Chester University | 1871 | ~17,000 students | Education, Business, Psychology |
Student Apartments in West Chester
Amber helps students find safe and verified student apartments in West Chester near leading universities.
Why West Chester is Great for Students
- Safe and student-friendly environment
- Very community-like suburban town
- Easy access to Philadelphia internships
- More affordable than Philadelphia
- Good dining options and café scenes with Mayday Coffee & Shop and Gryphon Cafe
6. Lancaster - Best for Arts & Affordability
Lancaster combines history, affordability, and a burgeoning arts community. This Pennsylvania college town has plenty of art galleries, theaters, coffee shops, and a very friendly environment for students.
Lancaster City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~59,000 |
| Student Population | 8,000+ |
| Average Rent | $750–$1,400/month |
| Cost of Living | Affordable |
| Walkability | Good |
| Best Areas for Students | Downtown Lancaster |
University Details
Franklin & Marshall College specializes in liberal arts, science, and law programs.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franklin & Marshall College | 1787 | ~2,000 students | Liberal Arts, Sciences |
Student Apartments in Lancaster
Amber helps students find safe and verified student apartments in Lancaster near leading universities.
Why Lancaster is Great for Students
- Low cost of living, around $1,100–$1,900 per month for students
- Lively arts and music culture
- Inviting and pedestrian-friendly downtown
- Safe place to study
- Close-knit community
7. Carlisle - Best Peaceful College Town
This Pennsylvania college town is where students enjoy a more tranquil learning environment, set amidst gorgeous scenery and tight-knit community living.
Carlisle City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~20,000 |
| Student Population | 3,000+ |
| Average Rent | $700–$1,300/month |
| Cost of Living | Affordable |
| Walkability | Good |
| Best Areas for Students | Downtown Carlisle |
University Details
Dickinson College is a renowned liberal arts college, renowned for its courses in international studies, political science, and environmental science programs.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dickinson College | 1783 | ~2,400 students | Liberal Arts, International Studies |
Student Apartments in Carlisle
Amber helps you to identify safe and credible student apartments in Carlisle, which are close to reputable universities.
Why Carlisle is Great for Students
- A quiet student environment
- Small class size
- Cheaper cost of living
- The hospitable local community
- Good liberal arts education
8. Villanova - Best for Business & Academics
The college town of Villanova, Pennsylvania, gives the students an exceptional place for learning in proximity to the city of Philadelphia, so that they can benefit from all its advantages.
Villanova City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~11,000 |
| Student Population | 10,000+ |
| Average Rent | $1,000–$2,000/month |
| Cost of Living | Expensive |
| Walkability | Moderate |
| Best Areas for Students | Near Villanova Campus |
University Details
Villanova University is well-known as one of the best places where you can receive quality training in areas like business, law, engineering, and nursing.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Villanova University | 1842 | ~10,000 students | Business, Law, Nursing |
Student Apartments in Villanova
Amber assists students in finding verified student apartments in Villanova, close to some of the best universities around.
Why Villanova is Great for Students
- Excellent programs in business and law
- Safe, suburban environment
- Easy commute to Philadelphia
- A strong network of alumni, such as Maria Bello and Jim Croce
- An attractive campus setting
9. Indiana - Best Affordable Student City
Indiana, Pennsylvania, is quite famous amongst students because of its affordability, excellent campus life, and great college town culture, making it an ideal Pennsylvania college town for students.
Indiana City Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~13,000 |
| Student Population | 10,000+ |
| Average Rent | $600–$1,200/month |
| Cost of Living | Affordable |
| Walkability | Good |
| Best Areas for Students | Near the IUP Campus |
University Details
Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s departments, such as education, criminology, business, and music, have a good reputation.
| University | Founded | Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania | 1875 | ~9,000 students | Education, Criminology, Music |
Student Apartments in Indiana
Amber assists in finding secure student apartments in Indiana for students studying at top-ranked universities.
Why Indiana is Great for Students
- Housing that won’t break the bank
- Classic college town setting
- Student groups and campus activities abound
- Warm community vibe
- Great bang for your buck academically
Which Pennsylvania College Town is Best for You?
| If You Want… | Best College Town |
|---|---|
| Big-city student life | Philadelphia |
| Research and technology | Pittsburgh |
| Traditional college-town atmosphere | State College |
| Engineering programs | Bethlehem |
| Safe suburban living | West Chester |
| Affordable arts scene | Lancaster |
| Peaceful liberal arts environment | Carlisle |
| Elite academics and business | Villanova |
| Budget-friendly student living | Indiana |
Pennsylvania College Towns have no competition, as far as education and overall student experience go. You could choose the bustling college town experience from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, or opt for the calm environment of Carlisle and Indiana. Pennsylvania college towns provide an ideal atmosphere for students wanting to balance academia and affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best college town in Pennsylvania?
The top college city in Pennsylvania is Philadelphia, as there are colleges and universities, entertainment, internships, and students.
Which college town in Pennsylvania is the cheapest?
Indiana, with $900–$1,500 per month, and Lancaster, with $1,100–$1,900 per month, can be considered among the cheapest places for students in Pennsylvania.
Which Pennsylvania college town provides the best nightlife?
Philadelphia provides the best nightlife, music, and entertainment for students.
Are Pennsylvania college towns suitable for foreign students?
Yes, Pennsylvania universities are very popular among foreign students due to their excellent academic programs.
Which Pennsylvania college towns are safe for students?
West Chester and Carlisle are considered some of the safest towns for students.
What's the safest place to live in Pennsylvania?
State College is one of the most secure locations to reside within Pennsylvania because of its minimal crimes, warm community feel, and conducive student lifestyle.
What are the cheapest colleges in PA?
Some of the cheapest universities in Pennsylvania are Pennsylvania Western University, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, West Chester University, Millersville University, and Kutztown University. They are also some of the best colleges in Pennsylvania.