America's best places to live & visit: Top 10 college towns 2012

Athens, GA, just wouldn't be Athens without the University of Georgia. The city was established in the late 1700s when state leaders selected 40,000 acres to build a college. The university remains the city's top employer and sets the community's cultural tone. It provides not only jobs, but entertainment, recreation and art.

The cost of living in Athens is low when compared to the national average and residents can experience college events that range from theater performances and art shows to football games and happy hours.

City population (2010 Census): 115,452

Student population: 39,000

College(s): University of Georgia, Piedmont College, Athens Technical College

Don't miss: 40 Watt Club for music, farm255 for local and sustainable food, Athens Welcome Center for historic tours