Top College Towns in Ohio and Indiana

Ohio and Indiana boast numerous college towns, each fostering a welcoming environment closely tied to their respective universities. These towns are renowned for their sizable student populations and tailored amenities for young adults. Let’s explore some of the standout college towns in Ohio and Indiana, perfect for those who cherish this vibrant atmosphere.

Columbus, Ohio’s state capital and largest city, doesn’t fit the conventional mold of a college town. It is a major metropolis with a population exceeding 900,000, known for its pleasant parks and museums. Columbus is the home of Ohio State University, one of the biggest schools in the nation with a student population of more than 66,000. Situated north of downtown along the Olentangy River, this historical institution is a significant part of the city. Columbus residents are avid supporters of Ohio State’s sports programs. During the fall, Saturdays bring tens of thousands to Ohio Stadium to cheer on the Buckeyes football team.

Bloomington is a pleasant city in Indiana, home to around 80,000. Parks and forests surround this scenic community, including two state forests and the nearby trails and rugged wilderness of Hoosier National Forest. Bloomington houses the historic Indiana University, one of the Midwest’s premier educational institutions with nearly 50,000 students. With a scenic campus in the heart of the city, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and bars, Bloomington exudes a lively atmosphere. And city residents enthusiastically celebrate the school’s esteemed basketball program.

West Lafayette is a quaint city with approximately 45,000 residents. It offers picturesque and historic neighborhoods, a delicious food scene, and several renowned museums. However, West Lafayette is primarily recognized for Purdue University. This acclaimed school’s illustrious alumni include the likes of Neil Armstrong and Drew Brees. Its student population exceeds 41,000, and the massive campus sits just across the Wabash River from the city’s downtown. West Lafayette’s lively bars and many restaurants offer ample entertainment options for Purdue students, who play a prominent role in the community. Also, the school’s sports teams consistently draw large crowds of both students and city residents each year.

South Bend is in Northern Indiana near the state’s border with Michigan. This is a diverse, bustling city with an emerging economy and several high-quality museums. The city is nationally renowned as the location of the University of Notre Dame, a prestigious school with a history dating back to the mid-19th century. The school is famous for its Fighting Irish football team, one of the nation’s most iconic college sports teams. South Bend has a downtown area filled with bars, restaurants, and shops for the university’s substantial student population to enjoy.