Geography

Regions and Interactive Map

This map of the United States highlights regions as well as several cities and tourist attractions. To better appreciate the history of indigenous nations who lived in this land before being massively displaced by colonists of the United States, please view a map developed by Native Land Digital that shows where tribes once lived as well as a map from the Bureau of Indian Affairs that shows where federally recognized tribes currently live.

Please note that the universities mentioned represent a very small sample of colleges and universities in the United States. Prospective students should not consider these exhaustive.

Geography

American Culture

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times

Southwest

Much of this region is desert and a destination for retirees and tourists. Its mild climate attracts people during the cold winter months and famous national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona attracts people doing summer road trips. There is a concentration of American Indians in this region as well as immigrants from neighboring Mexico. Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and gambling.

Sample University and City

Arizona State University (ASU)

Phoenix, Arizona

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (1,680,992)

Climate

Desert, dry and warm

More information

National Parks in Arizona
Visit Phoenix
City of Phoenix
AZ Central

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times

Pacific Northwest

Pacific Northwest- is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and known for its earthy, environmentally-conscious, politically liberal culture. The Cascade Mountains, including Mount Rainer and Mount St. Helens are located there as well as famous company headquarters, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington.

Sample University and City

Portland State University (PSU)

Portland, Oregon

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (654,741)

Climate

Rainy, moderate

More information

National Parks in Oregon
Travel Portland
City of Portland
Oregon Live

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Southwest

Much of this region is desert and a destination for retirees and tourists. Its mild climate attracts people during the cold winter months and famous national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona attracts people doing summer road trips. There is a concentration of American Indians in this region as well as immigrants from neighboring Mexico. Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and gambling.

Sample University and City

Arizona State University (ASU)

Phoenix, Arizona

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (1,680,992)

Climate

Desert, dry and warm

More information

National Parks in Arizona
Visit Phoenix
City of Phoenix
AZ Central

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

Southwest

Much of this region is desert and a destination for retirees and tourists. Its mild climate attracts people during the cold winter months and famous national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona attracts people doing summer road trips. There is a concentration of American Indians in this region as well as immigrants from neighboring Mexico. Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and gambling.

Sample University and City

Arizona State University (ASU)

Phoenix, Arizona

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (1,680,992)

Climate

Desert, dry and warm

More information

National Parks in Arizona
Visit Phoenix
City of Phoenix
AZ Central

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Pacific Northwest

Pacific Northwest- is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and known for its earthy, environmentally-conscious, politically liberal culture. The Cascade Mountains, including Mount Rainer and Mount St. Helens are located there as well as famous company headquarters, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington.

Sample University and City

Portland State University (PSU)

Portland, Oregon

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (654,741)

Climate

Rainy, moderate

More information

National Parks in Oregon
Travel Portland
City of Portland
Oregon Live

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

Southwest

Much of this region is desert and a destination for retirees and tourists. Its mild climate attracts people during the cold winter months and famous national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona attracts people doing summer road trips. There is a concentration of American Indians in this region as well as immigrants from neighboring Mexico. Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and gambling.

Sample University and City

Arizona State University (ASU)

Phoenix, Arizona

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (1,680,992)

Climate

Desert, dry and warm

More information

National Parks in Arizona
Visit Phoenix
City of Phoenix
AZ Central

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

Pacific Northwest

Pacific Northwest- is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and known for its earthy, environmentally-conscious, politically liberal culture. The Cascade Mountains, including Mount Rainer and Mount St. Helens are located there as well as famous company headquarters, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington.

Sample University and City

Portland State University (PSU)

Portland, Oregon

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (654,741)

Climate

Rainy, moderate

More information

National Parks in Oregon
Travel Portland
City of Portland
Oregon Live

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Pacific Northwest

Pacific Northwest- is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and known for its earthy, environmentally-conscious, politically liberal culture. The Cascade Mountains, including Mount Rainer and Mount St. Helens are located there as well as famous company headquarters, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington.

Sample University and City

Portland State University (PSU)

Portland, Oregon

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (654,741)

Climate

Rainy, moderate

More information

National Parks in Oregon
Travel Portland
City of Portland
Oregon Live

Pacific Northwest

Pacific Northwest- is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and known for its earthy, environmentally-conscious, politically liberal culture. The Cascade Mountains, including Mount Rainer and Mount St. Helens are located there as well as famous company headquarters, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington.

Sample University and City

Portland State University (PSU)

Portland, Oregon

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (654,741)

Climate

Rainy, moderate

More information

National Parks in Oregon
Travel Portland
City of Portland
Oregon Live

West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times

West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times

Southwest

Much of this region is desert and a destination for retirees and tourists. Its mild climate attracts people during the cold winter months and famous national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona attracts people doing summer road trips. There is a concentration of American Indians in this region as well as immigrants from neighboring Mexico. Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and gambling.

Sample University and City

Arizona State University (ASU)

Phoenix, Arizona

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (1,680,992)

Climate

Desert, dry and warm

More information

National Parks in Arizona
Visit Phoenix
City of Phoenix
AZ Central

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Southwest

Much of this region is desert and a destination for retirees and tourists. Its mild climate attracts people during the cold winter months and famous national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona attracts people doing summer road trips. There is a concentration of American Indians in this region as well as immigrants from neighboring Mexico. Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and gambling.

Sample University and City

Arizona State University (ASU)

Phoenix, Arizona

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (1,680,992)

Climate

Desert, dry and warm

More information

National Parks in Arizona
Visit Phoenix
City of Phoenix
AZ Central

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times

West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times

Pacific Northwest

Pacific Northwest- is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and known for its earthy, environmentally-conscious, politically liberal culture. The Cascade Mountains, including Mount Rainer and Mount St. Helens are located there as well as famous company headquarters, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington.

Sample University and City

Portland State University (PSU)

Portland, Oregon

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (654,741)

Climate

Rainy, moderate

More information

National Parks in Oregon
Travel Portland
City of Portland
Oregon Live


Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune


South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times


East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times


Southwest

Much of this region is desert and a destination for retirees and tourists. Its mild climate attracts people during the cold winter months and famous national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona attracts people doing summer road trips. There is a concentration of American Indians in this region as well as immigrants from neighboring Mexico. Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and gambling.

Sample University and City

Arizona State University (ASU)

Phoenix, Arizona

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (1,680,992)

Climate

Desert, dry and warm

More information

National Parks in Arizona
Visit Phoenix
City of Phoenix
AZ Central


West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times

Pacific Northwest

Pacific Northwest- is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and known for its earthy, environmentally-conscious, politically liberal culture. The Cascade Mountains, including Mount Rainer and Mount St. Helens are located there as well as famous company headquarters, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington.

Sample University and City

Portland State University (PSU)

Portland, Oregon

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (654,741)

Climate

Rainy, moderate

More information

National Parks in Oregon
Travel Portland
City of Portland
Oregon Live

Midwest

The Great Lake States are known as America’s heartland and have historically been a center for manufacturing and agriculture. Notable cities in the region include Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. The weather is moderate to cold and there are four distinct seasons. People who live in this region are known to be down-to-earth with a strong work ethic. 

Sample University and City

University of Minnesota (UMN)

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (429,606)

Climate

Cold, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in Minnesota
Explore Minnesota
Minneapolis City of Lakes
Star Tribune

South

This section of the country is known for tourism and agriculture. Many retirees spend the winters in Florida, university students spend their spring breaks on the beaches, and families go to Disneyworld. Another well-known area for tourism in the south is New Orleans, Louisiana where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1865, slavery of Africans in this region was common, especially on plantations. 

Sample University and City

University of South Florida (USF)

Tampa, Florida

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (399,700)

Climate

Ocean gulf, warm

More information

National Parks in Florida
Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa
Tampa Bay Times

East

This is where the first European colonies were established in the late 16th century. Even now, it is a densely populated area with more than eight million people in New York City alone. The region is known for arts, entertainment, business, finance, manufacturing, and politics. The capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. as well as ivy league universities are located on the Eastern Seaboard.

Sample University and City

New York University (NYU)

New York City, New York

Cost of Living

High

Population

Large (8,336,817)

Climate

Moderate, four-seasons

More information

National Parks in New York
The Official Guide NYC
City of New York
The New York Times

Southwest

Much of this region is desert and a destination for retirees and tourists. Its mild climate attracts people during the cold winter months and famous national parks, including the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona attracts people doing summer road trips. There is a concentration of American Indians in this region as well as immigrants from neighboring Mexico. Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and gambling.

Sample University and City

Arizona State University (ASU)

Phoenix, Arizona

Cost of Living

Medium

Population

Medium (1,680,992)

Climate

Desert, dry and warm

More information

National Parks in Arizona
Visit Phoenix
City of Phoenix
AZ Central

West

This area of the country is known for its national wilderness areas such as Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Rocky Mountains but also for the urban sprawl in California and tourist attractions there including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Silicon Valley in northern California has been a hot spot in the United States for technology and innovation.

Sample University and City

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, California

Cost of Living

High

Population

High (3,979,576)

Climate

Warm, moderate, sunshine

More information

National Parks in California
Discover LA
City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times