Top 50 College Towns You'll Want To Live In From Sea To Shining Sea

48. Poughkeepsie, New York: Hudson River Grace Near the City That Never Sleeps

Poughkeepsie, home to Vassar College and Marist College, is a quietly potent gem in the Hudson Valley. Known for its scenic river views, architectural beauty, and literary past, it balances a rich academic culture with a growing entrepreneurial buzz. But here’s the kicker—Poughkeepsie is a direct Metro-North train ride from Grand Central Station. That means students, grads, and remote workers can enjoy tree-lined campuses and art galleries by day, and catch a Broadway show or high-stakes meeting in Manhattan that same evening. It’s the best of both worlds, with fresh air and ambition in equal measure.