Gainesville has topped the charts again.
The city was recently listed as the No. 3 college town by lifestyle website www.livability.com.
The ranking was based on criteria including weather, entertainment, nature and business innovation, said Matt Carmichael, the editor of Livability.
The percentage of residents between ages 25 and 34 also factored into the ranking, he said, because those statistics show a town can retain students after they graduate.
The university’s presence in Gainesville creates both an economy center and a cultural center, Carmichael said.
UF is one of the largest employers in the city, he said, and it draws speakers, concerts and other entertainment.
Karla Aguayo, a 20-year-old anthropology junior, said she thinks Gainesville made the list because it is a versatile community with a diverse student population. It also has strong academic programs and free buses for students.
“When I was checking out the Princeton Review, UF offered many opportunities,” she said.
Lily Flynn, a 20-year-old psychology junior, said activities around town are tailored for the students, such as the vibrant nightlife.
“I think that’s what makes a good college town: when the city conforms around the college and not the other way around,” she said.
