Thinking about spending your college years in North Carolina? Well, the college towns on this list have the potential to spice up your studies. These spots are more than just classrooms and lecture halls; they're the backdrop to your entire college experience.
Whether you're a student searching for an apartment in Chapel Hill or a professor on the hunt for a house in High Point, each college town below brings its own set of attributes to the table. Ready to check out some of North Carolina's coolest college towns? Your tour starts now.
Population: 61,960 | Student population: 31,640 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,654
Chapel Hill is synonymous with the University of North Carolina, known for its law and medicine programs. The presence of UNC influences local businesses and social scenes, catering extensively to students and faculty.
In Chapel Hill, students often stick around after graduation to create their own paths and pursue their dreams. One shining example of this is Brandwein’s Bagels, a UNC grad-founded New York-style bagel shop that has taken Chapel Hill by storm in recent years.
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Population: 283,506 | Student population: 17,620 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,588
Durham is primarily known as the home of Duke University, a prestigious figure in research and academia, particularly in business and environmental sciences. The student population heavily influences the local economy, with numerous shops and services tailored for them. The university’s partnerships with local businesses foster a mutually beneficial relationship.
Duke's involvement in Durham extends well beyond the campus walls. A great example of Duke’s impact on Durham is the Duke Clinical and Translational Science Institute. This institute fosters collaboration between Duke researchers and local healthcare providers to accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into improved patient care.
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Population: 19,092 | Student population: 20,641 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,365
Appalachian State University in Boone is known for its sustainability and renewable energy programs. The university's focus on environmental issues influences the local community, which actively engages in green initiatives. This academic direction steers local policies and business practices towards sustainability.
Students often fall in love with Boone during their four years and find themselves sticking around after graduation. This investment in the natural beauty of the area and focus on environmental stewardship ensures the longevity of the resources that make living in Boone so appealing.
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Population: 299,035 | Student population: 19,038 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,105
Greensboro is boosted by the presence of UNC Greensboro, which shines in visual and performing arts. The creativity stemming from the campus spills over into the city, fostering a creative community that supports galleries, theaters, and plenty of live music venues.
Additionally, Greensboro’s economy is bolstered by the university's business programs. Graduates often stay in town, applying their skills to local enterprises and start-ups. There’s no better example of this than UNC Greensboro graduate-founded company, Xtern Software.
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Population: 87,521 | Student population: 28,021| Average 1-bedroom rent: $999
East Carolina University in Greenville is respected for its medical and fine arts programs. The university influences local health services and ensures a strong culture through its arts community. This partnership enhances the quality of life in Greenville, making it an attractive place for students and professionals to find their way.
ECU's Brody School of Medicine and College of Nursing contribute significantly to healthcare in Greenville and the surrounding region. Through partnerships with local healthcare facilities and clinics, ECU students and faculty provide essential medical services to underserved communities.
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Population: 467,665 | Student population: 36,831 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,388
North Carolina State University is a hotspot for engineering and textiles in Raleigh. The Wilson College of Textiles leads the charge by contributing to Raleigh’s well-known textile industry. This connection keeps talented people in town and ensures Raleigh maintains its status as a titan in the textile industry.
NC State’s presence in Raleigh also bolsters technological innovation and entrepreneurial ventures. The university's entrepreneurship program has garnered praise from all over and has resulted in the development of unique programs like the Wolfpack Investor Network. This program brings together the brightest minds and biggest pockets NC State has to offer to maximize their impact on Raleigh and the country.
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Population: 11,336 | Student population: 7,127 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,128
Elon University is a pivotal part of its namesake town. Elon University is particularly respected for its communications and business programs. The university's influence is visible in the town's infrastructure and culture thanks to the Kernodle Center for Civic Life.
In Elon, the university’s commitment to producing well-rounded graduates shapes local businesses and social initiatives. This close relationship promotes a seamless integration of student life and community growth, ensuring Elon's small college town charm for years to come.
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Population: 114,059 | Student population: 5,860 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,006
High Point University is famous for its pharmacy and interior design programs. The university's strongest programs reflect the priorities of the local economy, especially since High Point is known as the "Home Furnishings Capital of the World." This alignment between educational programs and local industry creates clear career pathways for students to find success while living in the High Point area.
The influence of High Point University also extends into the local community through its top-tier pharmacy program. Graduates often find opportunities right in town, helping to staff and manage local medical facilities.
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College towns are qualified as towns or cities with at least one college or university and fewer than 500,000 people according to U.S. Census data. Average rental data from Rent.com in May 2024.
This is not a comprehensive list of all of the towns and cities in the state meeting those requirements.