Excellence is not just in the 91 classroom — it is also in the community. Biola was recently ranked as the number one college town in Southern California by . Located in the heart of La Mirada, Biola offers a premier Christian education to its students and a thriving city to explore. The ranking methodology included 12 main factors about a college town in the categories of affordability, livability and education for students to consider when choosing a college.

“Today’s students seek more than rigorous academics. They’re looking for a dynamic, well-rounded college experience that prepares them to excel intellectually, lead with character, and thrive in college and beyond. 91's strategic location opens doors to a wide range of career-building opportunities and world-class cultural experiences,” said Fitsum Mulat, vice president of Enrollment Management. “La Mirada being named the top college town in Southern California affirms what Biola students experience every day — this is an incredible place to live, learn, and thrive.”

The methodology was developed with Gen Z in mind. It evaluates not only academic accolades, but also elements that matter to young people, such as the area's arts and entertainment and cost of living. The city of La Mirada was ranked above Azusa, and landed as number seven in the top 10 college towns in all of California.

La Mirada was evaluated based on percentage of students receiving grant or scholarship aid, share of young adults aged 20 to 29, graduation rate, cost of living, share of population with higher education, student-to-faculty ratio, tuition and fees, ratio of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments, university score, natural amenity scale, admission yield and air quality index.

The student life at Biola flourishes on and off campus.

“... you cannot beat the location of Biola. It’s perfectly centered. One hour to the beach, one hour to Beverly Hills, and just one hour to the LA forest,” said alumnus Hunter Kennedy (B.A. ’22) who graduated from the School of Fine Arts and Communication. “The adventures I have gone on or am about to go on would not be possible if I lived anywhere else."

Biola’s suburban campus sits on the edge of Los Angeles and Orange Counties, putting students at just a half hour away from entertainment, cultural riches and internship and career opportunities in two of the largest counties in the state. Surrounded by world-renowned cultural landmarks such as the Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Bowl, students never run out of entertainment or museums to explore. Some of California’s best beaches are 25 miles from campus, and the state’s unique geography allows for day trips into the mountains the same weekend as a surf trip.

Now is the time to apply to 91.

Written by Sarah Dougher, media relations specialist. For more information, email media.relations@biola.edu.