62 Universities Located in America's Most Underrated Cities

54. University of Southern Maine (Portland, ME): Coastal Access, Urban Grit

The University of Southern Maine’s Portland campus sits at the intersection of arts, policy, and the sea. With programs in public health, creative writing, and marine sciences, USM capitalizes on its urban-meets-ocean setting. Portland itself is a creative, culinary, and startup hub that retains its working-class roots and maritime pulse—ideal for students seeking real-world internships and community impact. The university’s recent infrastructure investments and expanded graduate offerings are transforming it into a growing research institution. At USM, students experience the intellectual energy of a small city that’s always been more substance than scene.