<p>back to the OP:</p>
<p>One other factor to recognize is that the cost of living if you attended Gtwn would be far higher than if you attended UofC. I know from direct experience, having moved from Hyde Park to DC three years ago. This cost differential is true across the board, from housing to meals out to food costs. </p>
<p>Comparing Gtwn to UofC in terms of atmosphere and academics, they are two different worlds. As several have noted, one defines preppiness, the other defines anti-preppiness. One is a decent LAC with a few mediocre grad and professional programs tacked on. The other is an internationally recognized research university. Both offer an excellent education to most any undergrad, but with vary different flavors.</p>