@ Well, both Champaign Urbana (CU) and Madison are really easy places to live that are centrally located to bigger cities, particularly CU. We are 2 hours from St. Louis, Chicago, Indianapolis and 3.5 hours from Madison. I'd say as a city and for better access to the outdoors (which I personally care about) Madison has more to offer. It's next to lakes, more forest areas, etc. and it also has a bit more of a buzz being the capital. I do think Madison is more expensive though when it comes to rent. I can't say if that particular factor is enough to really sway you though.

When I first came to CU I was a bit nervous (satellite maps don't really say much but corn), but it's been a solid place to live. CU is quieter, yet has a surprising array of buzz from University happenings, good restaurants, and there's less ability for me to get distracted while I'm here. Most everyone is either a student, faculty, or staff, so getting to know your community and professors feels very easy. Most professors I know in town love working and living in CU because they get a lot of research and work done, and whenever they feel like traveling to a bigger city for things that aren't here, it's easy. The access to Chicago and its opportunities can't be overstated here, so again, it might depend on where you feel like you might end up after graduation.

I think you've got a hard choice here, Jinnipig. If you have the resources, you should probably take a trip to visit both to get a feel.

Agree with Justicerequiresconsequences. I live in Champaign-Urbana and work at UIUC. I can't necessarily comment on the differences of strengths and weaknesses between the two law schools with certainty, but I could help shed some light on the differences in the communities, area, and aspects outside of school. What factors are most important to you? That may help folks weigh in on your question.