The University of Florida ranked as the seventh-best public school in the nation, per U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 list. Their rating is among the most highly-touted for its variety of considerations.
“UF’s ranking among the very best public universities in the country reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff and students and the strong support we receive from the state of Florida, for which we are grateful,” said UF Board of Trustees Chair Mori Hosseini. “Once again, this is proof positive that the University of Florida’s future is as bright as it ever was. We refuse to slow down.”
The six public schools ranked ahead of UF were the University of California Berkeley, University of California Los Angeles, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, University of Virginia, and University of California San Diego.
UF was the highest-rated public school in Florida and in the entire southeastern United States. Furthermore, UF ranked 30th among all national universities tied with the University of Texas Austin.
“UF’s standing reflects a decade of concerted effort, supported by historic state investment and federal research funding, leading to stronger student outcomes, inspired research accomplishments and ever-greater impact on the economy of Florida,” said UF interim President Donald Landry. “Our future is one of thriving students, groundbreaking research and signal service to our state, because fortune favors the bold.”
Other accolades for UF include an 85th ranking in best value schools, 6th in biological/agricultural and in real estate, 8th in accounting, 10th in marketing, 40th in nursing, and 66th in economics. It was rated as the 14th best school for veterans, and the 15th most innovative school.
Following UF’s 30th ranking in the overall national university rankings among Florida schools were Florida State University (51st), University of Miami (64th), University of South Florida (88th) and Florida International University (97th).
Chris Gollon is a Flagler County resident since 2004, as well as a staple of the local independent music scene and avid observer of Central Florida politics, arts, and recreation.
