Report lists Athens as No. 1 Midwest college town; Oxford judged fourth

Oxford, home to Miami University, was named the fourth-best college town in the Midwest this week in a market insight report from RentCase.

Athens topped the list, followed by East Lansing, Michigan and Bloomington, Indiana.

The report analyzed how affordability, livability and education factors influence prospective students when they choose a college.

Incoming students, who the report says are likely Gen Z, are looking for the chance to “be part of vibrant communities that resonate with (their) values, especially those that influence your quality of life.”

The analysis, from the nationwide apartment listing site’s blog, also said young adults today “may also have a strong appreciation for culture and self-expression” and are drawn to places with cultural centers and places where they can “connect with like-minded individuals, engage with the arts or showcase (their) own creative endeavors.”

RentCafe also compiled nationwide rankings.

East Lansing is 13th nationwide, its placement mainly driven by the number of young adults living there. About 40% of all adults in East Lansing are aged 20-29, the 14th highest amount of young adults in the study.

Notable are the high graduation rates at Michigan State University (82%) and a highly educated population. Around 62% of the adults in East Lansing have a bachelor’s degree, according to U.S. Census data.

Overall, East Lansing had a score of 90.66. When compared to other high-ranking college towns on the list, the city didn’t have as many arts, entertainment and recreation establishments per 1,000 people. The report also said East Lansing has fewer natural amenities than other college towns.