Livability.com has named Iowa City one of the nation’s Top 10 College Towns, based on a comparison of quality of life, travel amenities, and other features in small and mid-sized cities across the United States.

The national Web site looked at everything from cost of living and walkability to cultural amenities and pollution levels, then focused on cities where a university is a top employer and key economic driver.

Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa, was ranked sixth in the list. Boulder, Colo., was ranked first.

"For a small to mid-sized town, having a great college or university can add immeasurably to the livability," says Livability.com Editor Matt Carmichael. "Schools provide a level of economic stability, a constant influx of new residents, and cultural and sporting events that cities couldn't produce on their own."

Iowa City was chosen because of the harmonious relationship among students, faculty, staff, and residents. Both the city and the university offer a host of amenities appealing to all residents, from arts and cultural activities, outdoor recreation opportunities, top-notch medical facilities, and nightlife to economic development assets, such as research and development, continuing education, and workforce training.

Top 10 Best College Towns 2013:
1. Boulder, Colo.
2. Ann Arbor,Mich.
3. Gainesville, Fla.
4. Columbia, Mo.
5. Lexington,Ky.
6. Iowa City, Iowa
7. Missoula, Mont.
8. Madison,Wisc.
9. Fayetteville, Ark.
10. College Station, Texas.

Learn more at livability.com/top-10/top-10-college-towns-2013.