These Are the Best Public Colleges in America

5 1 minute read

The majority of students pursuing a bachelor’s degree opt for public colleges, with over 60% choosing this more affordable option. The average annual tuition and fees for residents at a four-year public college was around $11,610 last year, according to the College Board. When factoring in room and board, the total annual cost can exceed $24,000.

Given the rising costs of higher education, families are increasingly concerned about the return on investment for their tuition dollars. Money recently released its 2025-2026 Best Colleges list, which can help families evaluate public schools in their state based on graduation rates, pricing, borrowing amounts, alumni salaries, and post-graduation employment rates.

The list, which considered 25 data points, features 270 public institutions, with approximately 45% ranking in the top quartile. Among the 19 schools that received a 5-star rating, notable institutions like the University of Michigan, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and University of Illinois Chicago stood out for their academic excellence, affordability, and accessibility.

Here’s a closer look at some of the top-scoring public colleges on Money’s 2025-2026 list:

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo: Known for its high graduation rates and strong alumni earnings.
Georgia Institute of Technology: A top engineering school with impressive alumni salaries and diverse academic offerings.
University of California, Berkeley: Renowned for its high graduation rates and academic excellence across various disciplines.
University of Michigan: Notable for its affordability, high graduation rates, and alumni earning potential.
These are just a few examples of the exceptional public colleges highlighted in Money’s Best Colleges list. Families can use this resource to make informed decisions about their higher education choices based on factors such as affordability, academic quality, and post-graduation outcomes.

For more information on the best colleges in America, tips on choosing a major in the age of AI, and ways to save on college expenses, visit Money’s website for valuable insights and resources.