Yo, you got to go Why more students from the Northeast are heading south for college

A growing number of Northeastern students are choosing Southern colleges, attracted by warmer climates, vibrant social scenes, and lower tuition costs. Data from a Wall Street Journal analysis indicates an 84% rise in Northern students attending Southern public universities over the past two decades, with a notable 30% increase from 2018 to 2022. Admissions counselors report that geographic diversity often enhances acceptance chances. Students are drawn to the lively atmosphere, as many experienced remote learning during COVID while watching peers in the South enjoy campus life. Casey McManus, a senior at Ursuline Academy, reflects this sentiment, stating her excitement about attending East Carolina University.

The trend has also led to increased interest in historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), which offer a nurturing environment and have gained visibility. Coastal Carolina University noted an 11. 6% rise in applications from New England students between 2024 and 2025. This shift marks a significant change in college selection patterns, reflecting broader cultural and social influences.