Surprisingly Affordable College Towns You Can Actually Live In

By

Lisette Marie

December 8, 2025

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

Archaeological area of Cantona, Puebla, Mexico. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Poco a poco

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.

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