State College, PA Named Best Small College Town by USA Today

The rural Pennsylvania town home to Penn State University topped the 2026 ranking.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 8:11pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of a lively college town street with blurred figures, buildings, and storefronts in warm, soft-focus tones, conveying the energy and community of State College.The vibrant college town of State College, Pennsylvania blends university life and local charm to create an engaging experience for both students and visitors.State College Today

USA Today's 10Best ranking has named State College, Pennsylvania as the best small college town in the country for 2026. The rural town, home to Penn State University, was praised for its lively events, arts performances, and festivals that blend student life with local charm. Visitors can attend football games, explore nearby parks and trails, and enjoy the town's growing culinary scene of pubs and local eateries.

Why it matters

As a small college town with under 50,000 residents, State College's recognition as the top destination of its kind highlights the appeal of these types of communities that offer a unique blend of university resources and local character. The ranking showcases State College's ability to provide an engaging experience for both students and visitors alike.

The details

USA Today's 10Best ranking considered small college towns with populations under 50,000 residents. A panel of experts pre-selected the candidates, and then readers voted to determine the winners. State College, home to Penn State University, was praised for hosting many events, arts performances, and lively festivals that combine student life with the town's local charm. Visitors can attend football games, explore nearby parks and trails, and enjoy the growing culinary scene of pubs and local eateries.

  • The 2026 USA Today 10Best ranking of small college towns was recently released.

The players

USA Today 10Best

A national media outlet that publishes an annual ranking of the top small college towns in the United States.

State College, Pennsylvania

A rural town in central Pennsylvania that is home to Penn State University and was named the best small college town in the country for 2026 by USA Today 10Best.

Penn State University

A large public research university located in State College, Pennsylvania that was a key factor in the town's recognition as the top small college town.

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The takeaway

State College's recognition as the best small college town in the country showcases the appeal of these types of communities that offer a unique blend of university resources and local character. The town's ability to provide an engaging experience for both students and visitors highlights the value these college towns can bring to their regions.