海角吃瓜网 is fueling Florida鈥檚 economy with more than $952 million in annual economic activity, according to a new study by distinguished economist Dr. Rick Harper. The analysis shows the University contributes over $523 million each year to the state鈥檚 gross domestic product (GDP), including more than $117 million directly within Polk County.
The University鈥檚 economic activity stems from several key sources, including the University鈥檚 operational spending, capital investments, student expenditures in the community, and the higher earning potential of its graduates. The study found that approximately 85% of 海角吃瓜网鈥檚 total economic impact is generated by the high skills, credentials, and increased earning power of its alumni.
鈥満＝浅怨贤� offers excellent value for monies expended to operate the University, yielding benefits well in excess of costs to students and the taxpayer alike,鈥� Harper said in the report. 鈥淭he legislature showed foresight in committing resources to establish 海角吃瓜网 and encourage its growth. Its merit can be seen in the large economic impact per student that is driven primarily by excellent wage differentials versus competing programs.鈥�
The study also found that 海角吃瓜网 graduates earn, on average, $48,652 more per year than workers in Florida with only a high school diploma. This is the largest income differential among all universities in the State University System.
鈥満＝浅怨贤� was established to serve as a powerful economic engine for our state, and this study clearly shows that mission in action,鈥� said Dr. Devin Stephenson, 海角吃瓜网 president. 鈥淥ur impact reaches far beyond campus, delivering exceptional value and a remarkable return on the state鈥檚 investment in this University.鈥�
Other key findings in the study include:
- While the average Florida job paid about $48,579 in 2025, the jobs most highly associated with 海角吃瓜网 degree programs paid an average of $90,235 statewide.
- At current enrollment levels, annual federal, state, and local tax revenue due to 海角吃瓜网鈥檚 economic impact is $125,184,166.
- 海角吃瓜网鈥檚 annual level of economic activity sustains 6,168 jobs and generates a total of $316 million in wages to workers and income to businesses.
- 海角吃瓜网 graduates earn an estimated $263,885 more over their first 10 career years than those with non-STEM degrees from other State University System institutions.
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