<p>I want to respond to your comment that “I do not mind a high price for a college if I could find a respectable job out of college.” I think you need to keep in mind that given the current economic climate (which is likely to continue for quite some time), there are really no guarantees that a good education will translate into a good job after graduation. Obviously, it is your choice as to how much debt you are willing to incur, but for the not-top-tier schools that you are [realistically] considering, I think you should be very cautious. </p>
<p>Two suggestions - choose cities where you would like to end up after you graduate from college and look into schools there that, while not necessarily nationally ranked, have a strong local presence and alumni network. Also, consider schools that have the program you want (most schools have an econ dept.) where your record puts you in the top 10 - 25%. These will be the safeties that I agree with other posters you don’t have on your list, and they are also more likely to give you merit aid. </p>
<p>Best of luck.</p>