This is a bit counterintuitive. So you’d apply to places your family wouldn’t be able to afford to bask in the glory of tippy-toppy acceptance, and then go somewhere else because of the better finances? I see the temptation, and we recently had the same phase in our family but ultimately decided it wasn’t worth it, and the NPC calculator became our basic tool in shortening the list.
I am constantly amazed at how straightforward the University of Arizona is with its formula for guaranteed, 4-year scholarships. Your tuition would be $6k/year there, and it’s strictly stat-based. You’d be in their honors college if you care to apply. It looks pretty awesome, brand new, and if not for our D’s aversion to its desert climate, it’d be our No. 1 safety.
There are other similar schools (UofNM, Alabama, etc.) but I think UofA stands out in that regard for its ranking and culture. A nice safety I think.