Best Colleges in Florida + Full List of Schools
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- Florida is home to 125 four-year colleges and universities, providing you with plenty of options.
- In-state tuition rates are generally affordable, particularly at two-year schools.
- Florida offers plenty of high-paying careers for college graduates in many industries.
- Florida's cost of living is slightly above average but is more affordable than many states.
Known for its mild weather and frequent sunshine, Florida is a top state for higher education. Major schools like the University of Florida and Florida State University serve tens of thousands of students each year, offering comprehensive training in all major academic and professional fields.
Plus, earning a degree in Florida can prepare you to enter the state's thriving job market.
Our guide to the best colleges in Florida offers an overview of higher education in the Sunshine State, including top schools, popular careers, and cost of living. We also provide a complete list of colleges in Florida.
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10 Best Colleges in Florida of 2023
Methodology
How did we choose the best colleges in Florida? Our approach considers academic quality, institutional reputation, and the student experience. We also factored in affordability, which ranks as a top concern for many students.
Finally, our list includes both public and private institutions, along with various campus settings and sizes, so you can find the best fit for your needs.
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida's flagship public university tops the rankings for the best college in the state. The University of Florida boasts a 96.7% retention rate. UF enrolls nearly 56,000 students and awards close to 16,000 degrees each year from its sprawling, historic campus in Gainesville.
At UF, you can choose from over 300 degree-granting programs and 24 fully online majors through UF Online. Whether you live in one of UF's 26 residence halls or enroll online, you benefit from student services and a large alumni network.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Join over 19,000 students at Florida's top-ranked private university. Founded in 1925, the University of Miami offers over 350 majors and programs. Or design a custom major based on your interests.
Outside of the classroom, you can join over 270 clubs, participate in student government, or join a fraternity or sorority. The university also encourages students to study abroad.
The University of Miami promises to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for incoming students. As a result, 73% of first-year students receive financial aid.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Since 1851, college students have traveled to Tallahassee to study. Today, the state's capital is home to Florida State University, one of the best colleges in Florida. It's also an affordable option for Florida residents thanks to a low in-state tuition rate.
Over 44,000 students attend FSU, which offers over 280 degree-granting programs. The public university's top-ranking programs include statistics, chemistry, psychology, public policy, and creative writing. Undergrads can also contribute to faculty research as part of the school's research opportunity program.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tampa's public university dates back to 1956. The University of South Florida serves 37,000 undergrads who choose from 180 majors. You can also participate in study abroad programs and research opportunities to enrich your education.
Sunshine and palm trees decorate the Tampa campus beautifully. And for students, campus life includes over 600 clubs and student organizations, plus an arts scene, wellness center, and athletic events. USF also runs campuses in St. Petersburg and Sarasota-Manatee, so you can branch out from Tampa.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida's largest college is also one of its best. The University of Central Florida enrolls nearly 70,000 students. From its main campus in Orlando, UCF offers over 240 undergraduate and graduate programs. The public university also operates regional locations and multiple online programs.
More than 18,000 students graduate and join the growing UCF alumni community every year. And 81% of UCF students receive financial aid, which helps nearly 60% of graduates leave campus with no college debt.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
New College of Florida
Sarasota, FL - 4 years
- Campus
Most students don't know that Florida has a public honors college. The New College of Florida fosters curiosity and individuality. With small classes and an individualized curriculum, New College stands out in the state's public college system.
Choose from over 50 majors and participate in student-led research, internships, and other hands-on learning opportunities. Minutes from Gulf Coast beaches and Sarasota's tourist attractions, you can enjoy activities both on and off campus.
At New College, 90% of students receive scholarships or financial aid. And thanks to the low in-state tuition rate, nearly two-thirds of students graduate with no debt.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Over 56,000 students come to Miami to attend one of the best colleges in Florida. A public university, Florida International University offers online and on-campus degrees. With over 200 options, plus South Florida's only public medical and law schools, FIU has something for everyone.
At FIU, you can kayak through mangroves, visit 36 on-campus restaurants, or tailgate at homecoming. On top of a low tuition rate, you can also gain valuable experience with FIU's numerous paid internship opportunities.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
It's one of the largest HBCUs in the country — Florida A&M University dates back to 1887. Today, the public, historically Black university enrolls around 10,000 students on its Tallahassee campus. Thanks to its affordable tuition rate and rich history, FAMU is one of the best colleges in Florida.
You can choose from over 50 majors. Or earn your degree online through FAMU Online, which offers business, nursing, criminal justice, and public health degrees. The online programs also charge low tuition rates. Florida residents can expect to pay $152 per credit for the online RN-to-BSN program.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Eckerd College
Saint Petersburg, FL - 4 years
- Campus
It's one of the only liberal arts colleges in the country with a mile-long, white-sand beach. The waterfront campus of Eckerd College sits between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay.
The private college's 2,000 students benefit from a small college experience in the Tampa Bay area.
Choose from over 40 majors, including American studies, biochemistry, and marketing.
Study abroad, complete an internship, or gain research experience to add valuable skills to your degree. And you might graduate early — 93% of Eckerd undergrads finish their degree in four years or less.
ROI Value Score: Low
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Want hands-on experience? The Florida Institute of Technology promises immersive, experiential learning from your first day. Students in the College of Aeronautics step into the cockpit during their first week of classes, for example.
Florida Tech admits undergrads directly into their majors. With small class sizes, the programs offer engaging, project-based learning where students can get personalized attention from their professors. In addition to a strong STEM focus, Florida Tech also offers business and liberal arts majors in a diverse, international community. A third of on-campus undergrads are international students.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
List of All Colleges in Florida
We've created a complete list of all four-year nonprofit universities in Florida. You can use the table below to compare data on student population, average net cost, acceptance rate, and number of applicants.
The following school data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
School | Total Student Enrollment | Avg. Annual Net Price | Acceptance Rate | Number of Applicants |
---|---|---|---|---|
AdventHealth University | 1,667 | $27,329 | 34% | 694 |
Albizu University | 5,150 | $17,726 | 100% | N/A |
Ana G. Mendez University | 1,302 | $21,078 | 44% | 3,404 |
Ave Maria University | 7,337 | $20,207 | 60% | 13,225 |
Barry University | 460 | $43,474 | 52% | 416 |
Beacon College | 2,624 | $15,769 | 85% | 12,818 |
Bethune-Cookman University | 2,036 | $41,857 | 65% | 5,549 |
Broward College | 2,871 | $13,649 | 84% | 8,988 |
Chipola College | 9,593 | $38,983 | 65% | 9,875 |
College of Central Florida | 12,720 | $17,002 | 58% | 1,668 |
Daytona State College | 2,649 | $28,778 | 70% | 779 |
Eastern Florida State College | 2,652 | $26,547 | 81% | 5,416 |
Eckerd College | 535 | $21,360 | 72% | 286 |
Edward Waters University | 7,830 | $30,752 | 64% | 13,941 |
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | 1,461 | $24,115 | 92% | 113 |
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide | 3,386 | $27,324 | 57% | 11,120 |
Everglades University | 732 | $22,237 | 94% | 175 |
Flagler College | 551 | $18,083 | 100% | N/A |
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | 3,995 | $26,943 | 58% | 9,119 |
Florida Atlantic University | 19,861 | $35,346 | 97% | 3,742 |
Florida College | 3,385 | $38,728 | 80% | 7,843 |
Florida Gateway College | 20,898 | $29,589 | 76% | 16,789 |
Florida Gulf Coast University | 3,687 | $30,276 | 95% | 6,220 |
Florida Institute of Technology | 1,663 | $55,752 | 65% | 2,462 |
Florida Institute of Technology Online | 3,057 | $35,317 | 50% | 9,022 |
Florida International University | 9,523 | $20,390 | 80% | 6,928 |
Florida Memorial University | 9,365 | $27,910 | 61% | 2,182 |
Florida Polytechnic University | 5,921 | $28,654 | 65% | 7,520 |
Florida Southern College | 4,257 | $25,756 | 94% | 7,344 |
Florida SouthWestern State College | 10,794 | $34,653 | 26% | 40,286 |
Florida State College at Jacksonville | 365 | $19,217 | 50% | 363 |
Florida State University | 19,096 | $36,467 | 19% | 49,169 |
Gulf Coast State College | 907 | $20,431 | 55% | 1,372 |
Herzing University-Orlando | 812 | $27,995 | 49% | 2,665 |
Hodges University | 9,000 | $11,583 | 33% | 12,372 |
Indian River State College | 30,155 | $9,711 | 81% | 24,268 |
Jacksonville University | 15,909 | $10,834 | 74% | 15,657 |
Keiser University | 56,664 | $9,881 | 64% | 17,343 |
Lake-Sumter State College | 1,563 | $12,373 | 56% | 2,779 |
Lynn University | 45,130 | $14,003 | 25% | 78,088 |
Miami Dade College | 44,002 | $5,478 | 100% | N/A |
New College of Florida | 659 | $10,496 | 75% | 1,830 |
North Florida College | 13,288 | $8,609 | 48% | 9,113 |
Northwest Florida State College | 70,310 | $13,108 | 41% | 54,977 |
Nova Southeastern University | 55,781 | $11,740 | 23% | 64,473 |
Palm Beach Atlantic University | 5,168 | $10,791 | 65% | 1,499 |
Palm Beach State College | 16,594 | $11,338 | 71% | 19,744 |
Pasco-Hernando State College | 49,708 | $11,004 | 44% | 65,568 |
Pensacola State College | 1,667 | $27,329 | 34% | 694 |
Polk State College | 5,150 | $17,726 | 100% | N/A |
Ringling College of Art and Design | 1,302 | $21,078 | 44% | 3,404 |
Rollins College | 7,337 | $20,207 | 60% | 13,225 |
Saint Johns River State College | 460 | $43,474 | 52% | 416 |
Saint Leo University | 2,624 | $15,769 | 85% | 12,818 |
Santa Fe College | 2,036 | $41,857 | 65% | 5,549 |
Seminole State College of Florida | 2,871 | $13,649 | 84% | 8,988 |
South Florida State College | 9,593 | $38,983 | 65% | 9,875 |
Southeastern University | 12,720 | $17,002 | 58% | 1,668 |
St Petersburg College | 2,649 | $28,778 | 70% | 779 |
St. Thomas University | 2,652 | $26,547 | 81% | 5,416 |
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota | 535 | $21,360 | 72% | 286 |
Stetson University | 7,830 | $30,752 | 64% | 13,941 |
The Baptist College of Florida | 1,461 | $24,115 | 92% | 113 |
The College of the Florida Keys | 3,386 | $27,324 | 57% | 11,120 |
The University of Tampa | 732 | $22,237 | 94% | 175 |
The University of West Florida | 551 | $18,083 | 100% | N/A |
Trinity Baptist College | 3,995 | $26,943 | 58% | 9,119 |
Trinity College of Florida | 19,861 | $35,346 | 97% | 3,742 |
University of Central Florida | 3,385 | $38,728 | 80% | 7,843 |
University of Florida | 20,898 | $29,589 | 76% | 16,789 |
University of Florida Online | 3,687 | $30,276 | 95% | 6,220 |
University of Miami | 1,663 | $55,752 | 65% | 2,462 |
University of North Florida | 3,057 | $35,317 | 50% | 9,022 |
University of South Florida | 9,523 | $20,390 | 80% | 6,928 |
Valencia College | 9,365 | $27,910 | 61% | 2,182 |
Warner University | 5,921 | $28,654 | 65% | 7,520 |
Webber International University | 4,257 | $25,756 | 94% | 7,344 |
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What Is the Cost of Attending College in Florida?
If you plan to attend any of the best colleges in Florida, tuition is likely a major concern. As the table below shows, public schools offer significantly lower tuition rates than private schools.
You'll receive even lower tuition as an in-state student, and you'll find the lowest overall tuition rates at public two-year schools.
Institution Type | Avg. Tuition & Required Fees |
---|---|
Public 4-Year (In-State) | $4,541 |
Public 4-Year (Out-of-State) | $18,322 |
Private 4-Year | $28,860 |
Public 2-Year (In-State) | $2,506 |
Public 2-Year (Out-of-State) | $9,111 |
What Are the Highest-Paying Jobs in Florida?
This list highlights five of the highest-paying jobs in Florida. Keep in mind this list only compiles some of the top jobs in Florida. There are plenty of other career options with a college degree.
The following list of high-paying jobs in Florida is based on 2022 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
1. Cardiologists
Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $428,810
Cardiologists diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases and conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. They may specialize in areas such as echocardiography and electrophysiology. Cardiologists also work to prevent and manage heart conditions.
2. Airline Pilots
Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $270,720
Airline pilots transport people and cargo on airplanes, following fixed routes and navigating takeoffs and landings. They must also respond quickly to flight conditions, such as hazardous weather. Pilots may fly regionally, nationally, or internationally.
3. Chief Executives
Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $256,890
Chief executives direct overall operations for businesses and other organizations. They work to ensure an organization meets set goals and determine overall business and operational strategies. Chief executives work alongside other executives, department heads, and managers.
4. Nurse Anesthetists
Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $174,390
Nurse anesthetists administer anesthesia for surgical procedures and other medical operations. They consult with patients to ensure anesthesia is administered safely and effectively. Nurse anesthetists also monitor patients during surgery and adjust anesthesia levels as needed.
5. Computer and Information Systems Managers
Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $157,810
Computer and information systems managers oversee information technology operations for businesses and other organizations. They determine an organization's overall technology goals and develop strategies to keep IT systems functioning efficiently.
What Is the Cost of Living in Florida?
By most metrics, the cost of living in Florida ranks slightly higher than the national average, though it is still far less expensive than states like New York or California. The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center ranks Florida as the 32nd most expensive state to live in for 2023.
Florida ranks below the national average for utilities and healthcare expenses. However, housing expenses in the state are significantly higher than average. Grocery and transportation expenses also hover just around the national average.
The bottom line? Florida remains just above the national average cost of living, but you can expect to spend more if you're attending school in a major city like Miami.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges in Florida
Why study in Florida?
Many of the best schools in Florida offer you a quality education with affordable tuition. While the state is slightly more expensive than average, it's still quite possible to earn a degree affordably, especially if you attend school online or in a smaller town.
Florida also boasts a strong job market with plenty of career opportunities after you graduate.
What are the most popular majors in Florida?
Some of the most popular majors at the University of Florida — the state's flagship public school and one of the best colleges in Florida — include biological and biomedical sciences, business management, and engineering. Other popular majors include communication, health professions, and social sciences.
What is the hardest college to get into in Florida?
The University of Miami boasts Florida's lowest admission rate, accepting just 19% of undergraduate applicants in fall 2022, according to NCES. The University of Florida is also quite selective, admitting around 37% of undergraduate applicants that same year.
How many colleges are in Florida?
NCES reports that Florida is home to 125 four-year nonprofit colleges and universities. The state also has 62 nonprofit two-year colleges, including community colleges, vocational schools, and religious institutions such as seminaries.