Boosted by strong scores in metrics measuring public service and an improved score in social mobility, the University of Wisconsin–Madison is ranked first among national public universities and 12th overall in Washington Monthly’s 2024 College Guide and Rankings.
The best community college in the U.S. is located in Wisconsin. Gateway Technical College in Kenosha, WI, claimed the top spot out of 616 schools included in this study. It has a full-time retention rate of 81%, a student-faculty ratio of eight, and $4,766 in tuition and fees for in-state students.
Milwaukee features some of the lowest living wages, rental costs and unemployment rates among adults ages 16 to 19. It also offers a large selection of nearby colleges, including three schools within one mile.