Carbondale, IL, United States

Life in Carbondale is no picnic - the university's party reputation comes at a price. Southern Illinois University's flagship campus has over 24,000 students, but the town itself only has around 25,000 residents. While the school offers a vibrant social scene with over 300 student groups, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, and the climate features hot, humid summers. However, Carbondale's natural beauty, from Campus Lake to Thompson Woods, provides a nice counterpoint. Overall, this college town is best suited for students and faculty looking for an immersive academic experience, but its small-town feel may not appeal to everyone.