Ellensburg, WA, United States

Ellensburg is a sleepy college town with a small student population of 15% Hispanic students. Central Washington University, the city's main draw, was founded in 1891 and now offers a range of academic programs across four colleges. However, those considering a move here should brace for a heavy bureaucratic burden - the university alone has four administrative divisions and a long list of campus buildings constructed over the decades. And while the campus boasts modern facilities like a $58 million student union, the broader city itself offers little in the way of entertainment or nightlife. For those seeking a quiet, cost-effective place to hunker down and focus on their studies, Ellensburg may fit the bill. But the relentless small-town charm and provincial atmosphere won't be for everyone.