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WWU ranks #1 for best value among Washington regional universities

Western climbs 17 places in U.S. News rankings that weigh academic quality and affordability; also tops value list for the entire PNW

by University Communications

Western Washington University ranked No. 1 for best value among regional universities in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, released Sept. 22. 

Western climbed 17 places to No. 24 in Best Value Schools among all regional universities in the West, placing it ahead of its public regional masters-granting university peers in the Pacific Northwest. The recognition highlights two priorities for students and families choosing a college: academic quality and affordability. 

U.S. News’ Best Value Schools rankings consider academic quality alongside the cost of attendance after need-based scholarships and grants. The methodology also considers how broadly institutions provide need-based financial aid. 

“An excellent education should give students room to explore, challenge them to think deeply, and prepare them for what comes next,” said President Sabah Randhawa. “Western’s recognition as a best value university reflects our commitment to making that education accessible and helping students make the most of their time here.” 

For students from Washington state and beyond, Western offers a high-quality education grounded in close faculty connections, undergraduate research and hands-on learning. Students can work directly with professors, contribute to research and creative projects, and build skills for careers and graduate school. 

Western improved in five institutional ranking categories overall. In addition to its best value recognition, the university ranked: 

All five rankings fall within U.S. News’ Regional Universities West category, which groups institutions by their academic offerings and geographic region. 

U.S. News & World Report’s West region spans 15 states, from Washington, Oregon and California east to Texas and Oklahoma, and includes Alaska and Hawaii. 

View the complete 2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings.