Summary of USU’s Economic Contributions
The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute conducted a study of Utah State University’s economic contribution to state and local communities. The contribution estimates covered fiscal year 2023 and focused solely on the short-term measurable effects of university-related spending.
Key Findings
USU is the largest employer in Cache County and seventh largest employer statewide with 10,000+ jobs in FY 2023. Including indirect and induced jobs, USU supports more than 17,000 jobs statewide.
USU supported a total of $1 billion in earnings, $1.4 billion in gross domestic product, and $2.2 billion in output (total sales) in FY 2023.
USU graduated 6,764 students in FY 2023. Most USU graduates continue to live and work in Utah after graduation. Two-thirds were working in-state one year after graduation, and more than half were working in the state five years after graduation. These alumni contribute to a skilled workforce and support economic growth.
This figure shows median earnings by educational attainment in Utah for the year 2023. Overall, the median was $52,135 annually. Median earnings for Utahns with a graduate or professional degree was $91,952; those with a bachelor’s degree, it was $62,328; for those with some college or an associate degree, it was $46,262; for high school graduates, $41,486; and for those who did not graduate high school, $36,596
USU received $450 million in research funding in FY 2023, with three-quarters coming from out of state. This funding supported 6,665 jobs, $385 million in earnings, $518 million in GDP, and $967 million in output statewide.
$450 Million in research funding => $967 million in statewide output
37% of revenue from out-of-state representing new money to Utah
USU generates significant economic impact from the 37% of its revenue that comes from out-of-state sources: 8,485 jobs, $562 million in earnings, $762 million in GDP, and $1,211 million in output (including direct, indirect, and induced).
For Utah State University in fiscal year 2023, 37% of revenue came from out of state. This represents new money to Utah’s economy.
A new report from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, commissioned by the Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) details USU’s significant statewide economic contribution, which includes supporting more than 17,000 jobs, $1.0 billion in earnings, $1.4 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and $2.2 billion in output (total sales) statewide in fiscal year 2023.
"This study confirms that we are not only changing lives but also driving billions in economic impact across the state. USU plays a vital role in strengthening local economies, expanding opportunity, and fueling innovation. It’s a powerful reminder that investing in higher education is investing in Utah."
Alan L. Smith, Interim President
Utah State University
