A Student’s Guide to Florida: 8 College Towns Reviewed

Welcome to Florida, where you'll find some of the top college towns in the country! Each town featured below provides students and locals with everything they need to thrive in their higher education journey and their lives afterward.  

Whether you're a student-athlete looking for a sweet apartment in Gainesville or a newly tenured professor hoping to find the perfect house in Tampa, Florida has you covered. So, let's dive into eight standout college towns in the Sunshine State that are sure to impress.

1. Gainesville – University of Florida

Population: 141,085 | Student population: 55,781 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,289

The University of Florida is known for its engineering, business, and health sciences programs. These majors attract students from all over the country. The engineering program is particularly strong, with a focus on innovation and research. Business students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes entrepreneurship and international business. Health sciences offer a range of specialties, from nursing to public health, preparing students for various careers in the medical field.

The university has strong ties with the Gainesville community. Students often intern at local tech companies and hospitals, making real-world connections early on. UF Innovate is a hotspot for startups, offering students a chance to work on cutting-edge projects. Local hospitals like UF Health provide hands-on experience for health science students.

Apartments near University of Florida | Houses for rent near University of Florida

2. Tallahassee – Florida State University

Population: 196,169 | Student population: 45,130 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,255

Florida State University excels in criminology, psychology, and music programs. These programs are some of the best in the nation. The criminology program is renowned for its research output and comprehensive curriculum. Psychology students engage in various research projects, gaining a deep understanding of human behavior. The music program, with its state-of-the-art facilities, nurtures talent and creativity, attracting students who are determined to carve out a career for themselves in the arts.

FSU has deep roots in the Tallahassee community. Many students work with state government offices and local non-profits, gaining valuable experience. The university's proximity to the state capitol provides unique opportunities for political science and public administration students. 

Apartments near Florida State University | Houses for rent near Florida State University

3. Orlando – University of Central Florida

Population: 307,573 | Student population: 70,310 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,749

The University of Central Florida boasts top programs in hospitality management, engineering, and computer science. The hospitality management program is one of the largest and most respected in the world. Engineering students have access to cutting-edge labs and research opportunities. The computer science program focuses on emerging technologies, preparing students for careers in a rapidly evolving industry.

Orlando offers UCF students internships and jobs at theme parks, tech companies, and hospitals. These opportunities give students hands-on experience. Companies like Disney and Universal Studios collaborate with UCF, offering internships and job placements. The city's growing tech scene provides numerous opportunities for engineering and computer science students. 

Apartments near University of Central Florida | Houses for rent near University of Central Florida

4. Coral Gables – University of Miami

Population: 49,248 | Student population: 19,096 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,400

The University of Miami is renowned for its marine science, law, and business programs. The marine science program leverages Miami's coastal location for hands-on research. Law students benefit from a curriculum that includes international law and human rights. The business school offers various specializations, from finance to marketing, preparing students for a range of career paths.

Coral Gables offers students internships and networking opportunities. The university's connections with local industries are strong. Students often find internships at major corporations, law firms, and marine research institutes. Miami's legendary nightlife also provides numerous opportunities for those interested in the entertainment industry. These connections help students build a professional network that can be invaluable after graduation.

Apartments near University of Miami | Houses for rent near University of Miami

5. Tampa – University of South Florida

Population: 384,959 | Student population: 49,708 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,802

The University of South Florida in Tampa is known for its medical, engineering, and business programs. These areas of study are highly rated. The medical program includes a leading research hospital, providing students with hands-on clinical experience. Engineering students have access to advanced labs and collaborative projects. The Muma College of Business offers a variety of concentrations, including entrepreneurship and global business, equipping students with a broad skill set.

USF students secure internships at local hospitals, engineering firms, and corporations. The university's partnerships with these institutions are beneficial. Tampa General Hospital is a key partner, offering internships and research opportunities for medical students. Local engineering firms collaborate with USF on various projects, giving students practical experience. Needless to say, the business community in Tampa is supportive of the USF student body.

Apartments near University of South Florida | Houses for rent near University of South Florida

6. Boca Raton – Florida Atlantic University

Population: 97,422 | Student population: 30,155 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,389

Florida Atlantic University excels in ocean engineering, business, and nursing programs. These majors are among the best in Florida. The ocean engineering program focuses on marine technology and research. Business students benefit from a curriculum that includes finance, marketing, and management. The nursing program is known for its rigorous training and high pass rates on certification exams.

FAU's connections with Boca Raton's tech companies and hospitals provide students with internships and job opportunities. The collaboration is significant. Students often intern at local tech firms, working on innovative projects. Boca Raton Regional Hospital offers clinical placements for nursing students, enhancing their practical skills. The business community in Boca Raton works hand in hand with FAU, offering coveted opportunities for students to gain real-world experience before their four years are up.

Apartments near Florida Atlantic University | Houses for rent near Florida Atlantic University

7. St. Augustine – Flagler College

Population: 14,329 | Student population: 2,652 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,140

Flagler College in St. Augustine is known for its stellar programs in education, business, and graphic design. The education program focuses on preparing teachers for diverse classroom settings. Business students receive a solid foundation in various disciplines, including accounting and marketing. The graphic design program nurtures creativity, with students working on real-world projects and building impressive portfolios.

The college has partnerships with schools, businesses, and design firms all around St. Augustine. Students gain practical experience through these connections. Education students often intern at local schools, gaining valuable classroom experience. Graphic design students collaborate with design firms, working on actual projects that enhance their portfolios and practical skills.

Apartments near Flagler College | Houses for rent near Flagler College

8. Fort Myers – Florida Gulf Coast University

Population: 86,395 | Student population: 15,909 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,620

Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers offers top programs in environmental science, business, and nursing. The environmental science program emphasizes sustainability and conservation, preparing students for careers in these fields. The nursing program provides comprehensive training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the healthcare industry.

FGCU students frequently intern at local environmental organizations and healthcare facilities. The university's ties to these institutions are strong. Internships at environmental agencies allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Local hospitals and clinics offer nursing students practical experience. The business community in Fort Myers also supports FGCU, providing numerous opportunities for internships and full-time jobs after graduation.

Apartments near Florida Gulf Coast University | Houses for rent near Florida Gulf Coast University

 

Methodology

College towns are qualified as towns or cities with at least one college or university and fewer than 450,000 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.

The post A Student’s Guide to Florida: 8 College Towns Reviewed appeared first on Apartment Living Tips - Apartment Tips from ApartmentGuide.com.

source https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/florida-college-towns/