Why Is Abilene the 7th Top College Town In the U.S.?
Abilene, Texas: A Thriving College Town Ranking Among America's Most Sought-After Cities
The Key City aka, Abilene, has just picked up a very impressive title of #7 on the list of America's most sought-after college towns, according to a new study by moveBuddha. This exciting news highlights Abilene as a thriving destination for anyone wanting to move here. Being that I have had personal experience attending two of the three major universities in town, Abilene Christian University (ACU) and Hardin-Simmons University, I can certainly understand why.
Abilene's Appeal
I attended Abilene Christian when it was known as Abilene Christian College and I also attended Cisco Junior College a hot minute ago. So, what makes our Abilene stand out? The city offers more than just affordable living and a solid job market. The findings from the study indicate a few key factors that make Abilene so attractive:
- Strong Job Market: As of July 2024, the unemployment rate in Abilene is 3.8%, which is significantly lower than the national average. This strong local economy attracts professionals from all over the country.
- Affordable Housing: In terms of affordability, Abilene ranks among the top three cities with the most affordable housing out of the 34 college towns featured in the study. The median home price in Abilene sits comfortably under $200,000, making it an ideal destination for those looking to settle down without breaking the bank.
- Outdoor Enthusiast's Dream: Abilene is also home to beautiful outdoor spaces like Abilene State Park and Lake Abilene, where residents can enjoy everything from camping to kayaking. These natural attractions appeal to locals and newcomers alike, especially those with an adventurous spirit.
LOOK: These Are The Three University Campuses Of Abilene
Why College Towns Are Popular
According to the moveBuddha study, there’s more to these college towns than just the schools themselves. College towns, including Abilene, boast vibrant cultures, youthful energy, and year-round activities, making them desirable for families, retirees, remote workers, and recent graduates. The "cool, youthful vibe" that surrounds universities often leads to a thriving arts scene, diverse dining options, and booming local economies.
While Abilene may be well-known for its colleges, including ACU, Hardin-Simmons University, Cisco College, and the Texas Tech School of Nursing, the city’s appeal stretches far beyond academia. College towns like Abilene offer an ideal blend of affordability, opportunity, and lifestyle.
Abilene in the Rankings
Here’s a snapshot of the top 10 thriving college towns in America, with Abilene holding its place at #7:
| Rank | City | In-to-out move ratio | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Johnson City, TN | 3.08 | 3.6 |
| 2 | Hickory, NC | 2.17 | 4.1 |
| 3 | Asheville, NC | 2.00 | 3.3 |
| 4 | Wilmington, NC | 1.93 | 3.6 |
| 5 | Fort Smith, AR | 1.88 | 4.0 |
| 6 | Corvallis, OR | 1.79 | 3.8 |
| 7 | Abilene, TX | 1.71 | 3.8 |
| 8 | Chattanooga, TN | 1.71 | 3.5 |
| 9 | Knoxville, TN | 1.70 | 3.2 |
| 10 | Saratoga Springs, NY | 1.70 | 3.8 |
The “in-to-out move ratio” shows how many people are searching for a move into a city versus out of it. Abilene, with a ratio of 1.71, is clearly a desirable location, drawing more people in than looking to leave.
Source: moveBuddha/created with Datawrapper
The Future of Abilene
As a proud Abilene resident and someone who has attended the universities here, I can attest to the incredible opportunities this city provides. With affordable homes, a booming job market, and outdoor recreational spaces, Abilene continues to be a top destination not just for students but for families, retirees, and professionals alike. The youthful energy that colleges bring to the community, coupled with the city's deep-rooted Texas charm, will likely keep Abilene thriving for years to come.
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