Which of these schools are similar or a step-up from our state school?

@3bound Unless the stats go up into the 1500’s (or an equivalent ACT), the competitive OOS engrg. schools will be a reach. Rice will be a reach as well. I would also agree with the folks who are suggesting you need safeties and matches.
Purdue and U of MN are worth looking into as matches. University of Delaware is very nice campus with a well respected Chem. Eng. program. Also, ASU - Barrett Honors(match) and Univ of Arizona (match/safety).