Top five best US cities for students: Check popular universities, average living expenses, and more

Top five best US cities for students: Every year, the QS Best Student Cities ranking evaluates cities worldwide to identify the best destinations for students based on factors like affordability, student feedback, and overall desirability. This ranking is widely regarded as a reliable guide for prospective students in choosing study destinations that offer not only high-quality education but also enriching city experiences.

For 2024, London has taken the top spot globally, renowned for its world-class institutions such as University College London (UCL), Imperial College London, and King's College London. With its impressive academic reputation and vibrant cultural life, London remains a top choice for students around the world.

Five best student cities in the US according to QS rankingsLike each year, in the United States, several cities have emerged as prime destinations for students. Here are the top 5 cities-


Here’s a closer look at the top universities, costs of living in these cities:

Boston (QS World rank #16)Boston is one of the more expensive cities for students, with monthly living expenses generally ranging between $1,500 and $2,500. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses but excludes tuition fees.

Top universities and colleges
Boston is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, making it a prime location for higher education:

• Harvard University: Located in nearby Cambridge, Harvard is one of the most respected and historic institutions globally, offering rigorous programs across multiple disciplines.
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Known for its strong focus on science, engineering, and technological research, MIT consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide.
• Boston University: This major private research university offers diverse programs and is known for its strong emphasis on global engagement.
• Northeastern University: With its renowned cooperative education (co-op) program, Northeastern provides students with valuable work experience as part of their education.
• Boston College: A private Jesuit research university, Boston College is known for its liberal arts focus and research opportunities, creating a balanced academic environment for students.

San Francisco (QS World rank #29)Living expenses in San Francisco average around $2,499 per month, making it one of the costliest cities in the United States. This estimate covers basic expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and utilities, though it doesn’t account for tuition fees. The high cost reflects the city’s dynamic tech-driven economy and its desirable urban setting.

Top universities and colleges
San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area are home to some of the world’s most prestigious institutions:

• University of California, Berkeley: Located in nearby Berkeley, UC Berkeley is a leading public research university with a strong emphasis on social sciences, technology, and liberal arts.
• Stanford University: Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford is world-renowned, particularly for its programs in business, computer science, and engineering.
• University of San Francisco: This private institution offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on social justice and global engagement.
• San Francisco State University: Known for its diverse programs, San Francisco State provides students with access to a wide array of academic and professional fields.

Los Angeles (QS World rank #37)In Los Angeles, students can expect living expenses to range between $2,000 and $3,000 per month. These costs cover essentials such as accommodation, groceries, transportation, and personal expenses. The wide range reflects the variability in housing costs depending on the neighborhood and lifestyle preferences.

Top universities and colleges
Los Angeles is known for its prestigious universities and vibrant academic community, with institutions renowned across various fields:

• University of California, Los Angeles ( UCLA ): A top public research university, UCLA offers competitive programs in medicine, law, business, and the arts.
• University of Southern California (USC): USC is highly regarded for its programs in business, law, and especially film, with a close connection to Hollywood.
• California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA): CSULA offers a broad range of programs with a focus on community engagement and professional readiness.
• Loyola Marymount University: Known for its strong liberal arts foundation, Loyola Marymount also offers prominent programs in film, media, and business.

Chicago (QS World rank #44)The cost of living for students in Chicago typically falls between $2,075 and $2,107 per month. This estimate includes housing, utilities, food, transportation, and other basic expenses. Despite the high costs, Chicago offers a blend of rich cultural experiences, excellent academic opportunities, and a vibrant urban lifestyle.

Top universities and colleges
Chicago is home to several prestigious institutions with strong academic reputations:

• University of Chicago : Known for its challenging academic environment, the University of Chicago emphasises research and interdisciplinary studies.
• Northwestern University: Located in Evanston, Northwestern is celebrated for its top-ranked programs in journalism, law, and business.
• DePaul University: This institution offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on hands-on learning and community engagement.
• Loyola University Chicago: Renowned for its health sciences and business programs, Loyola also emphasises service and community involvement.

Philadelphia (QS World rank #65)Philadelphia presents a more affordable option for students, with average living expenses around $1,200 to $1,500 per month. This covers essentials like housing, food, transportation, and basic utilities. The city’s lower cost of living is attractive to students seeking high-quality education without the high expenses seen in other major cities.

Top universities and colleges
Philadelphia has a strong academic presence, with several top-tier institutions offering diverse and specialised programs:

• University of Pennsylvania: An Ivy League university, Penn is known for its business, law, and medical programs, particularly through its Wharton School of Business.
• Temple University: With a strong emphasis on research and a wide array of programs, Temple offers students a comprehensive educational experience.
• Drexel University: Famous for its cooperative education program, Drexel combines classroom learning with professional work experiences.
• Thomas Jefferson University: Specialising in health sciences and medical education, Thomas Jefferson is ideal for students pursuing careers in healthcare and medicine.

How is the affordability score determined by the 'QS Best Student Cities' rankings?Affordability is determined by two main factors: tuition costs and the cost of living. This includes the average tuition fees at universities in the city, as well as expenses like housing, food, and transportation. A higher cost of living or tuition can make a city less affordable for students.