Study finds top 3 party schools in California

California is home to some of the most famous, or infamous, party schools in the nation — but only three made it to the top of this study's list. Niche ranked the best party schools in the U.S. of 2027, with three California colleges making the top 30. Most of the weight went to student surveys scor

College Sports

SEE ALL

Cornhuskers Wire

Nebraska volleyball vs. New Mexico live updates, stats and highlights

Aggies Wire

Texas A&M unveils patriotic Red, White & Blue uniform before Week 2

SB Nation

Marquette Volleyball Preview: vs Illinois (x2)

What is the story about?

California is home to some of the most famous, or infamous, party schools in the nation — but only three made it to the top of this study's list.

Niche ranked the best party schools in the U.S. of 2027, with three California colleges making the top 30. Most of the weight went to student surveys scoring school party scenes from one to five. Access to restaurants and bars as well as Niche grades for athletics and Greek life were also considered.

"Top party colleges have a vibrant and diverse party scene — they offer fun options both on and off campus and students rate their peers as being fun, friendly, and into partying," said Niche.

Brian Eaton, left, and Zane Carns of Osceola Mills Pennsylvania score a point in beer pong while tailgating at Country Fest at Clay's Resort Jellystone Park in Lawrence Township Thursday, June 12, 2025.

Is USC a party school? What rankings said

The University of Southern California in Los Angeles placed at No. 5 with its party scene and athletics getting A+

grades. Its academics, student life, diversity, and professors also received A+ grades.

USC ranked as having the sixth best student life in America and 12th best Greek life.

The university reported a total student population of 46,000 last year.

Is SDSU a party school? What rankings said

San Diego State University placed at No. 18 with its party scene and student life getting A+ grades. Its diversity, location, and campus food received A grades, and its athletics and campus received A- grades.

SDSU ranked as having the 22nd best Greek life in America.

The university reported a total student population of 40,110 last year.

Is UCSB a party school? What rankings said

University of California, Santa Barbara placed at No. 26 with its party scene and student life getting A+ grades. Its student wellness and future readiness also received A+ grades, and its academic, diversity and professors received A grades.

UCSB ranked as having the eighth best Greek life in America.

The university reported a total student population of 24,260 last year.