Charleston Named one of Nation's Top 20 College Towns
In its 2025 national study, WalletHub ranked Charleston as one of the best college towns in the United States.
Charleston was ranked as the 19th-best college town in the United States in WalletHub’s 2025 national study, highlighted by Business Insider.
The study analyzed more than 400 cities across the U.S. using factors such as affordability, academic opportunities and educational prospects. Charleston stood out for its strong social environment, earning the sixth-highest social ranking out of the top 20 cities.
This distinction reflects Charleston’s diverse and vibrant culture, leading to endless opportunities for College of Charleston students both inside and outside of the classroom.
Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, the College of Charleston is just steps away from dozens of restaurants and shops along King Street, as well as a short drive from the area’s stunning coastal beaches.
Madeline Jacaruso is a senior communication major from Essex, Connecticut, with interests in writing, journalism and strategic communication. She is a Martin Scholar and a member of the Eta Sigma chapter of Delta Gamma sorority.
