Whether your dream is to study Hawthorne near crashing waves as a student of a Miami college, Freud in a city where the population dwells from the sheer density of like-minded students or a town where the university is the hub and heartbeat of civilization; finding the best city for college is a uniquely personal experience. While one student may dream of a place where a city’s rock star nightlife is a far cry from his small town upbringing, another may seek quite the opposite.

USA Today ranks the best college towns in three major categories: major metropolitan areas, midsize metros and small cities. They use 12 criteria with the areas of perceived academic environment, quality of life and professional opportunity. Beyond that, the information gets murky. So, it’s imperative that the potential student uses lists like these as mere suggestions.

For example, of the major metro areas, only a few have beaches within close proximity, and not a single on the east coast. While others might not see this as an issue, for others it may be a deal breaker. Still, a city like Miami deserves a nod on the sheer basis of diversity of culture, stunning natural landscape, sunny weather, great night life and an array of competitive universities. Likewise, the student of color may enjoy studying in Atlanta, Georgia, which boasts all the temptations of a big city, a number of traditional and HBCU institutions.

Massachusetts is home to 191 degree granting institutions, an exceptional of which are within metropolitan Boston. The city’s long and consistent dedication to education, seen through the institution of the first public school, first library, first university and more, makes it worthy of a second look for anyone interested in higher education. Combine that with a bustling city nightlife, vigorous arts and music scene and a rich history.

For those seeking the small town feel, a college or university that serves as the vein of the community is ideal. For the Ivy League enthusiast, Ithaca, New York, home to Cornell University is the ideal option. State College, Pennsylvania is a great location for the serious student, socialite and sports enthusiasts, as home to Penn State University.

It’s important to know what’s important to you when choosing the ideal college location. Whether it’s staying close to home or having access to big city lures like professional sports teams, a diverse array of nightlife and a plethora of competitive interning opportunities, understanding what is a must have will go a long way towards finding your perfect college towns. For one person, Miami, Boston or Ithaca might be ideal, for another, the answer might be none of the above.

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