27 Underrated College Towns You'll Want To Move To

Some college towns don’t just shape your education—they shape your entire sense of home. Beyond the marquee names and overpriced zip codes are places that quietly deliver everything you didn’t know you needed: community, character, and room to grow. These towns offer more than a campus—they offer a lifestyle. Think vibrant main streets lined with indie bookstores and coffee shops, local festivals that bring everyone together, and neighborhoods where students, artists, and families coexist with ease. We’ve expanded our list to 27 Underrated College Towns You’ll Want to Move To—each one a hidden gem that blends academic energy with long-term livability. Whether you're graduating, remote working, or just looking for a fresh start, these towns offer affordability, charm, and the kind of everyday magic that makes you feel like you’ve finally found your place. Because sometimes the best move is to go where no one’s looking—until now.

1. Missoula, Montana – University of Montana

Missoula, home to the University of Montana, is a haven for nature lovers. Surrounded by seven wilderness areas and at the confluence of three rivers, it offers an array of outdoor activities. The town's vibrant arts scene, bustling farmers markets, and its unique blend of small-town charm with big-city amenities make it an ideal place for students seeking a balance between academics and leisure.