<p>^^^
I agree with the $1000-1500 for annual “home to school” travel (not including if and when parents travel, too.)</p>
<p>And, I agree that if all choices are affordable, then go with the favorite! 
I thought that the OP was a bit concerned about money and IU would require $30k+ per year out of pocket.</p>
<p>I guess it would have made more sense if I had written that since Indiana’s OOS COA is $37,700 (minus $9,000) and Alabama’s OOS COA is $31,000 (minus $12,800), things like “home to school” travel and study abroad become more affordable when the COA balance after scholarships is $18,200 rather than $28,700. </p>
<p>I know that if my kids’ college costs had us stretched to the maximum then agreeing to $10,000+ study abroad trips and other college “extras” would be unlikely. However, if a student has no intention of ever doing a study abroad, etc, then my point may be moot. :)</p>
<p>If I remember correctly, the OP’s D wants a traditional-looking campus (she has an image in her mind that Calif schools don’t seem to meet). I hope the OP’s D can get a chance to visit Alabama, so that she can see how much it can offer. </p>
<p>I may be confusing the OP with another parent who was concerned about cost (completely possible, since I do confuse people sometimes LOL). If I’m mixed up, then my posts are irrelevant. :)</p>