Choosing the school to earn your real estate degree in is both a mix of finding a highly ranked school and finding a city you will enjoy living in during your studies. We took a look at the highest ranking colleges in America for real estate degrees and found the top three cities for renters who are looking to earn their real estate degree. To make our list these cities had to provide average two-bedroom rental prices under $1,600, a high level of amenities, and a livability score of 60 or more.
If you are interested in entering the world of real estate, consider starting off your education and career in one of these top cities.
If you are looking for an undergraduate degree or an MBA Program in real estate with real-life experience, the one offered by the University of Wisconsin will be a perfect fit. This prestigious program allows graduate students to manage a 1.5 million dollar real estate investments trust using industry software and data. The program also includes an international focus with global study trips and conferences.
Not only does the University of Wisconsin offer those interested in real estate a premier degree program, those who study in Madison will enjoy the high-quality of life provided by this thriving city. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Madison, one of only two North American cities on an isthmus, is a paradise. The town boasts 260 parks and 6,000 acres of parkland within the city. Not only are there parks galore, Madison is situated among lakes, most notably Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. These lakes provide residents with access to an array of watersports including boating, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, or even just enjoying a waterfront restaurant view. The lakes also provide the backdrop for Madison’s rich music scene. During the summer free outdoor concerts are held on the beaches of the lakes, creating a unique community gathering focused on local artists.
With so much natural beauty to partake in, it is little wonder that Madison has been ranked the #1 Fittest City and has achieved Platinum Status for being a bicycle-friendly community.
When it comes to drinking and dining, Madison is a hotspot for everything from college hangouts to upscale restaurants. For beer lovers, the numerous breweries in the area will provide plenty of craft beer exploration. Art lovers will enjoy the variety of galleries and museums in the area. Madison is also host to an array of live entertainment options, from touring Broadway shows to improv comedy to live music. This capital city has something going on virtually every night of the week.
TurboTip: If you are looking to live in Madison, consider rooming to get the best bang for your buck. Splitting a house will cut down on rent costs and allow you to live in the more coveted neighborhoods. With more renters than owner-occupied homes in Madison proper, the rental market is currently thriving.
Images courtesy of Visit Gainesville/Alachua County
The University of Florida, located in northern Florida, provides an array of real estate education programs. From a Masters in Science in Real Estate to undergrad degree programs, this prestigious school provides excellent options for those looking to study in real estate.
Well known as a college town, there is more to Gainesville than just the presence of the University. Gainesville is also a popular location to live for those who enjoy exploring nature. Take a hike down the 212 wooden steps at Devil’s Millhopper State Park to check out a deep limestone sinkhole. Kayak or canoe on nearby Lake Wauburg, or take a day-trip to any of the numerous state parks in the area.
After classes let out for the day, students can unwind at a variety of restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. With a large student population, Gainesville provides outstanding happy hours and affordable bites. The Swamp Restaurant provides not only human grub, but an entire portion of their menu is dedicated to dining dogs with proceeds benefitting a local pet rescue. For beer lovers, the swamp experience can be made complete with a trip to the Swamp Head Brewery. Away from campus, downtown Gainesville is another hotspot for dining, bar hopping, and live entertainment. Downtown also hosts an array of popular events, such as First Fridays with live music, and the Downtown Farmers market, a popular place to pick up local goods.
TurboTip: For those who study at the University of Florida, low rent prices mean you can easily afford a one bedroom alone or upgrade to a larger space for a minimal price increase. With the overwhelming majority of residents being renters, there are usually a large number of properties on the rental market.
The University of Georgia provides an outstanding real estate program at Terry College of Business. This school boasts one of the largest Real Estate Ph.D. programs in the nation. Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees are available as well. The program also offers a robust internship program and assistance with job placement.
Those who choose to pursue their Real Estate degree at the University of Athens will be met with extremely affordable living costs paired with a host of outstanding amenities. Due to this city’s exceptional quality of life paired with remarkably low rent prices, Athens takes the top place on our list of the best cities to earn your real estate degree in.
School spirit reigns over this college town with the loveable Georgia bulldog mascot uniting the city. The craft beer scene provides casual locations to kick-back and relax. One such brewery is Creature Comforts Brewing Co., which focuses on not only premium local brews but also community-centered events. For festival-goers, Athens offers an unending supply of year-round festivities. One must-attend event, the AthFest is a massive, weekend-long music and arts festival.
Athens is also host to an array of interesting attractions. Check out the famous Tree That Owns Itself or take a hike through woodlands and wetlands at the Sandy Creek Nature Center. Less than 80 miles from Atlanta, Athens provides easy access to an array of culture and opportunity.
TurboTip: With a thriving job market, many graduates opt to put down roots in this charming, southern town. Post education, put your real estate knowledge to good use and become a landlord in this hot rental market.
Each of these top cities is the perfect location to own a rental property.
**Livability scores based on AreaVibes
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