2024 Best College Food in North Carolina

• Durham, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  1,195 reviews

Sophomore: Duke offers me an enriching and transformative experience. What stands out to me the most is the invaluable network and the exceptional people I've encountered here. The community at Duke is filled with goal-oriented, friendly, and intelligent individuals, all of whom have inspired and motivated me to strive for excellence. Moreover, Duke's commitment to providing outstanding academic resources has been a game-changer for me. I'm especially thankful for the innovative and entrepreneurship resources, as they have open my career path to startups. Lastly, the buildings and nature are beautiful!... Read 1,195 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $27,297

• SAT range 1470-1570

• High Point, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,554 reviews

Sophomore: My decision to attend HPU was easy once I stepped onto the campus. After my first year I know I made the right decision. My freshman dorm was Wanek and I couldn't have been happier with the roommate that was assigned to me and the quality of the building. Everything is like living at an all-inclusive resort. The tuition cost is not the cheapest, but it includes everything! We have unlimited access to all types of food venues, snacks with entertainment such as carnivals, concerts and more without an extra cost. When you walk to class in the morning there is a kiosk offering drinks and snacks free of charge. The educators are top notch and engaging and we are offered free tutoring. I have made my forever friends while participating in Greek Life and Athletics! Did I mention school spirit? It is a must see. Attend a HPU basketball game in the amazing arena. The student section receives food and merch for attending. I LOVE it! This is my home.... Read 1,554 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $40,604

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Greensboro, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  3,168 reviews

Sophomore: I loved the campus, it is very beautiful! The food was good but after winter break it started becoming average, still better than most campuses. The teachers are good and passionate about the subject they're teaching. There are office hours with each professor, there are S.I sessions, and tutoring available free for all students for their classes. The resources for students are endless, with health services, mental health services, food services, etc., there is something for every problem you can think of. There are a lot of clubs you can join and the campus is very LGBTQ+ friendly and accepting of all genders!... Read 3,168 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $9,950

• SAT range 1020-1260

• Fayetteville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  955 reviews

Freshman: My overall experience at Fayetteville State University has been wonderful so far as a college freshman. FSU offers a variety of hands on programs and resources that will help benefit students. This includes programs that support mental health, physical well being, grade extensions, and more. The staff and overall institution environment is extremely diverse and friendly, and they pride themselves into being able to encourage and support students.... Read 955 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $6,718

• SAT range 830-1040

• Charlotte, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  3,458 reviews

Freshman: UNC Charlotte is a fantastic college with a vibrant campus and a wide range of academic programs. The campus itself is beautiful, and there are plenty of resources available to support students' academic and personal growth. The professors are knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, and they genuinely care about their students' success. The campus community is diverse and welcoming, creating a great environment for making new friends and getting involved in various clubs and organizations. There are so many opportunities at UNC Charlotte academically to be a successful student. Overall, UNC Charlotte provides a great college experience with ample opportunities for learning, growth, and fun!... Read 3,458 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $15,682

• SAT range 1120-1320

• Elon, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,552 reviews

Freshman: I love Elon! The community is so welcoming, and you can tell my stepping on the beautiful campus. The school supplies so many opportunities for students to get involved. Org fairs are amazing ways to find new things that you may be interested in, and meet others who have the same interests as you. Almost all of the undergraduate teachers that I have had are very understanding and genuinely want to see their students succeed. The night life is very fun, however parties start later than at other universities. Dining options are very good and there are plenty of retail places that you can 'swipe' into a select number of times a week, depending on your meal plan. I have no complaints about Elon and would highly recommend applying!... Read 1,552 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $40,366

• SAT range 1160-1320

• Winston-salem, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  862 reviews

Niche User: Small school academic benefits with a favorable student/faculty ratio wrapped in the benefits of a big school spirit. Wake has a rigorous curriculum backed by caring, involved professors. Its gorgeous tree lined campus (ranked as one of the most beautiful by Architectural Digest) has plenty of outdoor space for study and play, and has modern student housing and facilities. Downtown Winston Salem, a burgeoning area with great cafes, restaurants and arts scene, is only a short drive from campus. Although ranked #23 by US News as "best value", it is still underrated. Graduates benefit from the support of a strong alum network and a Wake diploma is highly regarded on a national level. Go Deacs!... Read 862 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $24,643

• SAT range —

• Greenville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  3,047 reviews

Junior: East Carolina University has something for everyone, especially if being a pirate is in your blood! With my parents and the majority of my extended family being ECU alumni, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be. Reasonable distance from the capital to the coast makes ECU the perfect distance for educational and/ or fun day trips. Recent additions and updates to campus classroom buildings and residence halls have helped ECU spring forward with state of the art facilities and living spaces. Many residence halls are co-ed now allowing for even more diversity than in the past. There’s nothing like a sports team that never gives up! The ECU pirates continue to strive to improve their program. Taking on new coaches and expanding their division to play more and more schools, gives ECU’s football team something g to be proud of. Once a Pirate, always a pirate!... Read 3,047 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $14,762

• SAT range 1020-1170

• Chapel Hill, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  2,622 reviews

Junior: Over all my experience at UNC has been very good! It is a fast pace academically challenging environment. I consider this a good thing, the challenge and learning is exactly what I was looking for. The classes and teachers push me to work hard and grow. The mindset of the other students is likewise. Most students I encounter with are hard working. The main bad experience I have had at UNC Chapel Hill is the two lock downs caused by armed and dangerous people on campus. I do not completely blame the university for this as, of course, they cannot control every possible threat that steps onto campus. The first lock down a staff member was tragically shot and passed away. The university cancelled classes the next two days out of respect and to allow the students to recover. This was the right thing to do. However the second lock down class continued the next day as normal. I am believe they should have cancelled class at least one day after to allow students a break to process and recover.... Read 2,622 reviews

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $11,508

• SAT range 1140-1380

• Wilmington, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,969 reviews

Alum: UNCW isn't as large as many other UNC schools, but the opportunities available to students - learning communities, scholarships, research, study abroad, extracurriculars, networking - are incredibly robust, especially for undergraduates that might not know what opportunities to look for when they first start off! The Honors program helps its students take even better advantage of the resources that the school has to offer. UNCW is not the most diverse institution. Their commitment to worldliness and diversity is vocal: things like demographic-based student organizations, encouraging every student to study abroad, and providing scholarships and the like specifically for minority groups. But this isn't reflected in the bulk of the student body, faculty, and administration. In my time there (and in the years since), UNCW has grown a lot in this area, though, and I hope that trend continues!... Read 1,969 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $18,792

• SAT range 1210-1330

• Raleigh, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,416 reviews

Junior: NC State is not just a school with great academics, campus, and people, but instead a wildly diverse cosmopolitan community. At State there is truly something for everyone. For those who don’t know or have never visited campus, State is located close to Downtown Raleigh. Students enjoy its busy commercial areas as well as the abundance of tech companies, government departments, and awesome parks. On the weekends, friends and myself enjoy the nightlife of Raleigh and the rest of the Triangle. Besides the sense of place that NC State provides, the faculty is remarkable. They retain a sense of intellectual prowess without that air of elitism that other public and private universities might have. Every faculty member I have interacted with has been down to earth and actually cares about student success. I have made so many great connections and friendships since being here. Even though the campus is huge and our student body is large, State feels like a close knit community. Go pack!... Read 3,416 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $14,328

• SAT range 1270-1440

• Durham, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,094 reviews

Freshman: I've been at Central for about a month now, and overall I can say that I've enjoyed my experience a lot! During move-in week, there was a large event called "Eaglemania" that lasted for a week. There were chances to network, meet fellow students, and get to know the campus. It was the perfect introduction to what our new life would be. Now that I'm settled in, I wish our living situation was a bit better. I'm an honors student, and I live in the Benjamin Ruffin Residence hall. We have roaches, we were able to spray to get rid of them, but I think that should've been taken care of for us. Our AC system is also broken and has yet to be fixed but overall it's been a wonderful experience. I love how many events are present on campus, but one specific thing I would change is the pool. Central has a beautiful, Olympic-sized pool that currently has no water in it. I love swimming, and I'd love to get some laps in a couple times a week for exercise. Overall Central is a great school.... Read 1,094 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $14,496

• SAT range 930-1150

• Greensboro, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  3,092 reviews

Junior: I am currently a prospective transfer student that has had the best transfer admissions and enrollment experience with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. I have not taken any classes yet but, was able to experience what a Business course would look and feel like at the New Student Orientation I had participated in. I loved how welcoming and helpful everyone was including the adminstration and what would be my future peers as well. I do believe I chose the correct University to transfer to this fall as I have only had a positive experience with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University thus far. I truly am overly excited to continue my education in a state I have never lived in and am ready to began pursuing a more fulfilling and plentiful life!... Read 3,092 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $9,145

• SAT range 990-1170

• Pembroke, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,212 reviews

Junior: Here at UNCP, the administrators make sure you have a safe place to study. They make sure they prepare you for your work ahead so that you can put your best foot forward. As someone who values a balance of mental, physical, and educational progress, there are plenty of opportunities for me to engage in on campus. Before class, I register for F45 to help build my physical health. They make sure you know your resourses in case you need to talk to someone. Lastly, the teachers make sure you are ready for the work ahead of you. Not to mention, even the food is great, and that's coming from a vegan! If I had to change anything, I wish there was more members in the SOTC Marching Band. I have fun, but I want to share my love of the marching arts with more people!... Read 1,212 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $11,022

• SAT range 890-1140

• Swannanoa, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  341 reviews

Freshman: I love Wilson. I am a freshman and I chose this college for the unique experience of non-traditional learning, cool student body, and the opportunities for people who are interested in the arts. Warren Wilson is NOT for everyone. If you choose to come here, be ready to be in a small community of people who have bold personalities, and don't expect a normal college experience. Sports aren't a huge thing here, we do not have greek life, and parties are typically pretty small and are either in the dorms or one of the pastures. Personally I have gained a lot from the academics here so far, I have a lot of opportunities in my areas of interest and there are a lot of cool classes here. One of my favorite things is that the GE requirements are really cool and even if you don't like a certain subject you will probably find something you like in the list. There is a huge live music scene here too! Really the most complaints I have are the dorms aren't the best and food options are limited.... Read 341 reviews

• grade C minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $25,611

• SAT range 1120-1280

• Mount Olive, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  374 reviews

Sophomore: The staff and students are kind and very helpful in my experience here at this school. I enjoy the overall experience here at the university so far. I hope that my next two years will be as fulfilling as the ones that I have taken so far. I'm currently on the women's soccer team as a manager and that experience has given me what I need to declare my major. I'm an English major who wants to work in sports communication. My time here at the school has had its ups and downs but one thing that I know about this school is the amount of time and effort that is put into our schooling makes it worth the pain that you could go through here. We are small and a private school but here we will be a tight community. I like that all my teachers know my name and work with me through things that aren't always school related. All in all I think that if your looking for a smaller school with a great community I would come here, if you are looking for something bigger I wouldn't.... Read 374 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $16,736

• SAT range 990-1150

• Winston-salem, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  1,277 reviews

Other: Hello, Zaire Page! I'd be delighted to hear about your experience at Winston-Salem State University. Your time at the university has likely been a transformative journey filled with growth and learning. Winston-Salem State University is known for its commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and community engagement. It's a place where students have the opportunity to thrive both inside and outside the classroom, whether through rigorous academic programs, vibrant student organizations, or a welcoming campus atmosphere. As you reflect on your overall experience, I'm sure you'll find a rich tapestry of memories, challenges, and successes that have contributed to your personal and academic development. Your unique perspective and insights will provide a valuable glimpse into the world of Winston-Salem State University and inspire others to embark on their own educational adventures.... Read 1,277 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $12,976

• SAT range 880-1040

• Boone, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  2,766 reviews

Alum: I enjoyed my time at Appalachian State University. App State is located in the mountains of North Carolina and has a beautiful campus. There are tons of clubs, associations, and activities to get involved with when you are not too busy with classes. Class sizes were usually smaller than at other universities and professors were willing to go above and beyond to ensure a positive experience!... Read 2,766 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $12,735

• SAT range 1130-1300

• Cullowhee, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,604 reviews

Freshman: Oh, I'd love to share an amazing experience I had at Western Carolina University! It was such a vibrant and inclusive community. The campus was surrounded by the beautiful mountains of North Carolina, providing a breathtaking backdrop for my studies. The professors were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, making learning engaging and inspiring. I also had the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations, which helped me make lifelong friends and create unforgettable memories. Whether it was attending football games, exploring the nearby hiking trails, or participating in campus events, every moment at WCU was filled with excitement and growth. It truly was an incredible experience that I'll cherish forever!... Read 1,604 reviews

• grade B

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $13,082

• SAT range 1060-1230

• Charlotte, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  668 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Johnson & Wales University has been incredibly positive. The professors are engaging, they really enjoy their jobs and you can tell that they genuinely care about their students and their success in the classes they teach. Many of the staff have successful careers in their respective fields beyond their position at JWU, so they're able to offer lots of guidance to their students about getting started in their professional careers. Johnson & Wales is a great place to go to school, my only regret is that I didn't transfer here sooner!... Read 668 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $27,462

• SAT range —

• Boiling Springs, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  785 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Gardner-Webb University has been incredible. Every class that I have taken has challenged me and helped me grow into a better student and individual. The campus is gorgeous at all times of the year. The staff and fellow students are some of the kindest and most caring individuals you will ever meet. Whenever you meet someone new it feels like you have known them forever. The food is pretty good most days but every now and then, a sandwich is the best way to go. The dorms are very nice and clean. They are also in great proximity to where the classes are. Overall Gardner-Webb University is a wonderful school to further your education.... Read 785 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $20,296

• SAT range 960-1190

• Greensboro, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  470 reviews

Senior: Guilford is a very fun institution to attend there are a lot of possibilities that the school offers and there are so many friendly and helpful staff in the financial aid department. I highly recommend coming to Guilford the rooms are really good and there are plenty of opportunities to thrive and become a part of the Guilford community. Our new President Kyle Farmbry has been very motivational and has gotten a lot of respect from the students after we lost our last President. But actions speak far louder than words do. Apply and find out for yourself!... Read 470 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $25,785

• SAT range 950-1200

• Raleigh, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  302 reviews

Sophomore: William Peace University is an excellent private college because the campus is accessible to navigate, the campus values and incorporates Immersive Learning to improve education among Peace students, and the classes are enjoyable. Classes were challenging, but they also helped me open up a variety of perspectives about life and try new things. I liked how it was easier for me to build relationships with students as well as peer tutors and my professors. The campus also provided a ton of services, clubs, and inclusive groups. They even offer student jobs and volunteer opportunities as well as off-campus. I had the opportunity to volunteer off-campus to gain leadership experience for one of my Honors classes. Also, I like that William Peace offers an Honors Program to encourage students to push further and learn different life principles such as leadership, business, and the professional workplace. I had a great First Year and hopefully, the rest of my 4-year experience will go well.... Read 302 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $26,338

• SAT range 1000-1130

• Davidson, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  338 reviews

Alum: The professors and faculty are incredibly passionate not only about their research but helping students become better, independent researchers. They care about their students academic performance as well as their general well-being, and help their students prepare for life after Davidson. Additionally, the small classroom environments helps foster a close knit community that thrives on collaboration and the honor code engenders a common, shared community standard of honesty and integrity. The student government, additionally, helps act as an advocate for student voices and works with the administration to effect positive change for everyone. If students ever need help, the administration and staff are generally helpful and provide help in a timely manner. I needed a letter same day for a job offer from the transcript office before transcripts with final grades were available and they were kind enough to fulfill my request on short notice!... Read 338 reviews

• grade A+

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $25,794

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Brevard, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  223 reviews

Junior: Located in Western North Carolina. Brevard College is a small liberal Arts College with less than a thousand students enrolled. Brevard College has offered me a home away from home. Through the years I have created tight relationship with my professors who care about me and not just about school. I have lunch with them and even have cookouts at their house with other students. I am majoring in Wilderness Leadership and Experiential Education. I have a passion for working in the outdoors and I have learned so much already. I am proud to say that Pisgah National Forest is my classroom for four years. Currently I am still meeting General Education needs. Classes have been a good challenge for me. No class is too hard, but they are challenging students to exceed the minimal effort. I am so happy that I have found a college that I love.... Read 223 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $21,305

• SAT range 850-1050