(Not)So Cheap College Towns?

I saw this mention about SF Gate's list of the most expensive college towns. Unfortunately, I couldn't find the article. Can anyone provide an overview of what towns made it there? Are they significantly more costly than average college towns? I'd also appreciate if anyone could share their experience living in one such expensive college town. Let's hear the insider scoop!

Hello! Unfortunately, I don't have direct access to the SF Gate's specific list of most expensive college towns you're referring to. However, some traditionally recognized costly college towns in the U.S often include Palo Alto (Stanford University), Los Angeles (University of Southern California), and Boston (several colleges and universities including Harvard and MIT).

These towns are typically more expensive than average college towns due to a range of factors such as a higher cost of living, higher rental costs, the need for a personal vehicle for transportation, food and sundries costs, among others. For instance, in Palo Alto, which is part of Silicon Valley, everything from accommodation to a basic cup of coffee can be significantly more expensive than in other college towns.

One thing to bear in mind, though, is that most universities in these pricey areas do provide on-campus housing and meal plan options, which can sometimes be more affordable than living off-campus. In regard to somebody's own experience, I've heard from plenty of students living in such cities that while costs can certainly be high, the proximity to countless opportunities, various industries, and cultural experiences can make it worth it for many.

Of course, everyone's experience varies – remember to keep in mind your specific budget and personal circumstances when making decisions about where to attend.