22 College Towns That Are Surprisingly Affordable Places to Live

College towns are often associated with bustling student life, rich cultural experiences, and a strong sense of community. While some university cities are notorious for their high cost of living, others strike the perfect balance between affordability and opportunity, offering a fantastic quality of life without draining your wallet. We’ve expanded our list to 22 college towns around the world that provide budget-friendly living while still delivering top-notch amenities, thriving arts and music scenes, and strong local economies. Whether you’re a student looking for an affordable place to study, a young professional seeking a vibrant and cost-effective city, or even a retiree who wants the energy of a university town without the hefty price tag, these destinations offer the best of both worlds. From charming small towns with picturesque campuses to mid-sized cities brimming with innovation and opportunity, these college hubs prove that you don’t need a sky-high budget to enjoy a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle.

1. Columbia, Missouri (University of Missouri)

Columbia, home to the University of Missouri (Mizzou), offers a blend of college-town energy and Midwestern affordability. The cost of living is well below the national average, with affordable rent, low property taxes, and budget-friendly dining options. Housing is especially reasonable compared to larger cities, making it an attractive option for students and professionals alike. The town is rich in cultural offerings, from art galleries and live music venues to a strong local food scene. Outdoor lovers can take advantage of nearby nature trails, state parks, and the Katy Trail, which runs through the area.

2. Athens, Georgia (University of Georgia)

Athens is more than just a hub for football fans—it’s a dynamic, artsy town with a surprisingly low cost of living. Despite its thriving music scene (home to bands like R.E.M. and The B-52s) and vibrant downtown, Athens remains affordable, particularly in housing and utilities. Rent is much lower than in nearby Atlanta, making it a great choice for students, young professionals, and retirees looking for a laid-back, culturally rich environment. The town also boasts excellent farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and easy access to outdoor recreation in the surrounding Blue Ridge foothills.

3. Lubbock, Texas (Texas Tech University)

Lubbock, home to Texas Tech University, is one of the most budget-friendly cities in Texas. The cost of living is significantly lower than in Austin, Houston, or Dallas, particularly when it comes to housing and transportation. Lubbock offers a great quality of life with its booming local economy, excellent healthcare, and a growing arts and music scene. Known as the "Hub City," Lubbock provides big-city conveniences with small-town prices, making it a hidden gem for anyone looking for affordability and opportunity in Texas.

4. Granada, Spain (University of Granada)

For those looking beyond the U.S., Granada offers an unbeatable combination of history, culture, and affordability. The cost of living is among the lowest in Spain, yet the quality of life is exceptional. Rent is inexpensive, and you can still find tapas bars that serve free food with drinks—a local tradition. With stunning Moorish architecture, the breathtaking Alhambra, and a vibrant student population from the University of Granada, this city offers a dynamic international atmosphere at a fraction of what you'd pay in other European cities.

5. Bozeman, Montana (Montana State University)

Bozeman is an outdoor lover’s paradise, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and offering easy access to Yellowstone National Park. Despite its growing popularity, it remains more affordable than many other scenic college towns. The cost of living is still reasonable compared to places like Boulder, Colorado, with affordable housing and a lower overall tax burden. The town’s strong sense of community, combined with a burgeoning tech industry and thriving arts scene, makes it an appealing choice for young professionals and remote workers.

6. Brno, Czech Republic (Masaryk University)

Brno is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets when it comes to affordable living. The cost of rent, groceries, and entertainment is significantly lower than in Prague, yet Brno offers a similar historic charm with fewer crowds. Home to Masaryk University, the city is filled with students, giving it a youthful and lively atmosphere. With its mix of historic castles, underground tunnels, and modern coworking spaces, Brno is an increasingly popular choice for digital nomads and expatriates looking for an affordable European lifestyle.

7. Fayetteville, Arkansas (University of Arkansas)

Fayetteville is frequently ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S., and its affordability is a major factor. With a low cost of housing and utilities, Fayetteville offers residents access to top-tier education, a lively arts scene, and plenty of outdoor activities. Nestled in the Ozarks, the town has stunning natural beauty, and its strong economy is supported by the presence of major employers like Walmart’s corporate headquarters nearby. Despite its rapid growth, Fayetteville maintains a welcoming, small-town atmosphere with affordable living costs.

8. Puebla, Mexico (Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla)

Puebla is a historic Mexican city with a growing student population and an incredibly low cost of living. Home to one of the country’s top universities, Puebla offers affordable rent, cheap but delicious street food, and low transportation costs. The city boasts stunning colonial architecture, a UNESCO-listed historic center, and some of the best cuisine in Mexico (hello, mole poblano). For those looking to stretch their budget while enjoying a vibrant cultural scene, Puebla is a fantastic choice.

9. Iowa City, Iowa (University of Iowa)

Iowa City, a UNESCO City of Literature, is an underrated gem for affordable living. Housing costs are well below the national average, and public transportation is cheap and efficient. The town is known for its thriving literary scene, arts festivals, and strong community engagement. Iowa City also has excellent public schools and healthcare, making it an appealing place for families and retirees in addition to students.

10. Ljubljana, Slovenia (University of Ljubljana)

Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital and university town, is one of the most affordable cities in Europe for students and professionals alike. The cost of living is significantly lower than in Western European capitals, yet it offers a high quality of life, with picturesque streets, riverside cafés, and easy access to nature. Rent is affordable, public transport is efficient, and food prices are low compared to nearby Austria or Italy. Plus, Slovenia’s excellent healthcare and education systems make it a smart choice for expats looking for a budget-friendly European home.

11. Knoxville, Tennessee (University of Tennessee)

Knoxville offers all the perks of living near a major university without the sky-high costs. Rent and home prices remain lower than in Nashville or Atlanta, and the cost of food, transportation, and entertainment is also budget-friendly. With the Smoky Mountains nearby, outdoor recreation is a big draw, and the town has a strong music and arts culture. Knoxville is perfect for those who want an affordable yet lively place to live in the southeastern U.S.

12. Dundee, Scotland (University of Dundee)

Dundee, Scotland’s “City of Discovery,” is an affordable and creative hub with a strong student population. Unlike the more expensive Edinburgh or Glasgow, Dundee offers budget-friendly rent and a lower cost of living while still providing access to a thriving arts and gaming industry. The city has a strong sense of community, excellent public transportation, and a stunning coastal location, making it one of Scotland’s most appealing and cost-effective places to live.

13. Marburg, Germany (Philipps University of Marburg)

A picturesque medieval town with a vibrant university scene, Marburg offers a blend of old-world charm and modern affordability. Unlike pricier German cities like Munich or Berlin, Marburg has lower rent costs, student-friendly dining options, and a strong public transport system that eliminates the need for a car. The town’s historic streets, castle, and riverside promenades make it a dream for students and remote workers who want a peaceful yet dynamic environment.

14. Valparaíso, Chile (Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso)

Known for its colorful hillside homes, street art, and stunning ocean views, Valparaíso is a thriving university city with a cost of living significantly lower than Santiago. Rent, food, and transportation are all budget-friendly, and its bohemian atmosphere makes it a paradise for creatives and students alike. With vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and a strong coffee scene, Valparaíso offers an incredible quality of life at a fraction of the price of major South American capitals.

15. Montevideo, Uruguay (Universidad de la República)

Montevideo, Uruguay’s laid-back capital, offers an affordable and high-quality lifestyle compared to many North American and European cities. The cost of rent and daily expenses is low, public healthcare is excellent, and Uruguay’s relaxed pace of life is ideal for students and remote workers. With beautiful beaches, European-style architecture, and a friendly atmosphere, Montevideo blends affordability with cultural richness.

16. Nakhon Pathom, Thailand (Mahidol University)

Located just outside of Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom offers the best of both worlds—proximity to a major city with the affordability of a smaller town. Rent is incredibly low, street food is delicious and cheap, and public transportation is highly accessible. Home to one of Thailand’s top universities, Mahidol, this city provides a serene atmosphere with plenty of temples, green spaces, and historical landmarks.

17. Coimbra, Portugal (University of Coimbra)

A historic city with one of Europe’s oldest universities, Coimbra is a fantastic place for students and budget-conscious individuals. The cost of living is significantly lower than in Lisbon or Porto, but it retains all the charm of Portugal’s cultural heritage. Rent is affordable, and daily expenses like food, transport, and entertainment are budget-friendly. With its riverfront setting, stunning university buildings, and thriving café culture, Coimbra is an affordable European gem.

18. Kaunas, Lithuania (Vytautas Magnus University & Kaunas University of Technology)

Lithuania’s second-largest city, Kaunas, is rapidly gaining recognition as an affordable, student-friendly destination. Rent and general living costs are among the lowest in Europe, and Kaunas’ creative, youthful vibe makes it a hidden gem for international students and digital nomads. The city’s mix of Soviet-era and Art Deco architecture adds to its unique character, and it’s an excellent alternative to pricier Western European university cities.

19. Cluj-Napoca, Romania (Babeș-Bolyai University)

Cluj-Napoca, the unofficial capital of Transylvania, is one of Europe’s most underrated college towns. It boasts low rent, cheap food, and a buzzing nightlife scene. Romania’s cost of living is among the lowest in the EU, and Cluj-Napoca is a fast-growing tech and cultural hub with excellent infrastructure. The surrounding Carpathian Mountains provide endless outdoor adventures, making it an affordable and dynamic place to live.

20. Medellín, Colombia (Universidad de Antioquia & EAFIT University)

Medellín, once infamous for its troubled past, has transformed into one of South America’s most exciting and affordable cities. With an innovative public transport system, warm climate, and cost of living well below that of Western countries, it’s a fantastic place for students and digital nomads. The city’s vibrant art scene, friendly locals, and scenic mountain views make it an increasingly attractive destination for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-quality lifestyle.

21. Bragança, Portugal (Polytechnic Institute of Bragança)

For those looking for an even more affordable option in Portugal, Bragança is a hidden treasure. This small northern town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and medieval architecture, with a cost of living far below that of larger cities. The Polytechnic Institute of Bragança attracts international students, and the town's slow pace of life, combined with access to nature, makes it perfect for those seeking tranquility without high expenses.

22. Dunedin, New Zealand (University of Otago)

Dunedin is New Zealand’s most affordable university town, offering a lower cost of living than Auckland or Wellington while still providing a vibrant cultural scene. Home to the University of Otago, Dunedin has a strong student population that keeps rental prices reasonable. With stunning coastal landscapes, historic architecture, and a strong sense of community, Dunedin is a fantastic option for those looking to experience New Zealand on a budget.

Affordable College Towns: Where Quality Meets Affordability

These 22 college towns prove that you don’t need a big salary to enjoy a high quality of life. Whether you’re looking for cheap rent, affordable dining, or a vibrant cultural scene, these cities and towns offer everything from historic charm to stunning nature—all without the steep price tag of major urban centers. Whether you're a student, remote worker, or retiree, considering one of these surprisingly affordable college towns might just be the smartest move you make.