<p>Iowa City is an example of a great college towns. College towns typically have one or more universities that have a large footprint to their economy, this is most often experience by cities with smaller populations but can also be identified in large cities. You also tend to notice in college towns pride in the local university(s). Another major part of a college town is the sports scene, a college town sports scene is almost always dominated by the local university(s). Again this is most often experience in smaller cities 10-150k but can be identified in large areas from 150k+, yes sometimes even 500k+. In most college towns the economy larger offering to their younger population whether it’s entertainment, shopping, etc…making it friendly to the college population. There are many other qualities in a college town.</p>
<p>I personally like college towns and urban areas. Though most college towns do have a decent urban district just not as large as say Manhattan. A college town tend to be more friendlier to the student population, making it a great atmosphere.</p>
<p>I think it’s important for a university to be within a great college town but I definately would not make that first preference. First preference should be given to the school.</p>