UC Berkeley, UCLA, Michigan lead Forbes 2025 best public colleges rankings: Check full list here

Forbes has released its 2025 list of the Top 25 Public Colleges in the United States, spotlighting the institutions delivering the best return on investment for students. The rankings, which weigh alumni salaries, academic outcomes, student debt, and long-term career value, place the University of California–Berkeley at the very top among public universities and fifth overall nationally.Here are the top public universities shaping student futures in 2025.

1. University of California–Berkeley

UC Berkeley tops the Forbes list of public colleges and ranks fifth overall nationally. Known for its powerhouse programs in social sciences, engineering, and computer sciences, Berkeley is a symbol of public education at its very best. Graduates earn a median salary of $90,900 within three years of graduation, which rises to $170,100 two decades later—the highest long-term earnings among all public universities.

With its combination of research excellence, global reputation, and student outcomes, Berkeley continues to set the benchmark for public higher education.

2. University of California–Los Angeles (UCLA)

UCLA follows closely in second place, cementing its reputation as one of the most competitive public universities in the world. The university drew more than 140,000 applications for Fall 2025, admitting fewer than 10 percent of its applicants, a level of selectivity comparable to Ivy League schools.

Popular majors include social sciences, biological sciences, and mathematics, and the payoff is significant: graduates record a median salary of $149,200 twenty years after earning their degrees.

3. University of California–San Diego (UCSD)

UC San Diego secures a strong place among the top public colleges, thanks to its cutting-edge research environment and consistently strong student outcomes. The university has built a reputation as a hub for innovation and discovery, frequently earning recognition in Forbes’ broader national rankings.

Its focus on science, technology, and public service continues to make it a top choice for ambitious students.

4. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan remains one of the country’s most prestigious public universities, offering both Ivy League–level academics and a strong sense of accessibility. Ann Arbor is known for its rigorous programs, especially in engineering, business, and the sciences, and for producing graduates with strong career trajectories.

Forbes highlights Michigan’s high academic standards and consistently impressive career outcomes, solidifying its place as a public institution with global influence.

5. University of Florida

Rounding out the top five is the University of Florida, which has emerged as a rising star among public universities. With affordable tuition, record-breaking application numbers for 2025, and robust research funding, UF represents the growing power of Southern state flagships.

Forbes notes that graduates see competitive long-term earnings, and the university’s focus on return on investment makes it one of the most attractive choices for students seeking value without compromising on quality.

Other notable mentions

Beyond the top five, Forbes also recognised institutions such as Purdue University, the University of California–Santa Cruz, North Carolina State University at Raleigh, and Binghamton University—the only SUNY school to make the list. Together, these colleges highlight the depth and diversity of America’s public higher education system, offering students a range of pathways to success.