Kennesaw, August 14, 2025
News Summary
Kennesaw State University announces an impressive economic impact of $2.3 billion for fiscal year 2024, reflecting a 7.1% increase from the previous year. The growth is attributed to education-related spending and community expenditures that support over 16,000 jobs. The report highlights the vital role KSU plays in fostering economic prosperity in the region, contributing significantly to local businesses and the overall economy of Georgia.
Kennesaw Rakes in $2.3 Billion Economic Impact for Fiscal Year 2024
In a recently released report, Kennesaw State University (KSU) announces a remarkable economic impact of $2.3 billion for the fiscal year 2024, marking a significant 7.1% increase from last year’s figure of $2.15 billion. This impressive data was shared by the University System of Georgia, highlighting how integral KSU is to both local and regional economic prosperity.
Where Does the Impact Come From?
The economic contributions from KSU stem largely from two primary areas: education-related spending and community expenditures. In terms of education-related spending alone, students contributed over $1.4 billion. The university, along with its employees and students, also spent about $892 million in the community, which includes local favorites like restaurants and retail shops.
Job Creation: A Win-Win Situation
Another impressive highlight from this report is the sheer number of jobs supported by KSU’s activities in fiscal year 2024. Altogether, KSU supported a total of 16,621 jobs. This includes 4,373 jobs on campus and 12,248 jobs off-campus, catering to both the private and public sectors. For each job that KSU creates on campus, an astounding 2.8 jobs are generated within the local community, echoing the symbiotic relationship between the university and its surrounding area.
Long-Term Benefits of Higher Education
A companion study associated with this report underscored the long-term benefits for graduates from public colleges and universities in Georgia. It was found that those with bachelor’s degrees can expect to earn $1.4 million more over their lifetimes compared to their peers without a degree. This data aligns seamlessly with the economic uplift that KSU generates annually.
KSU Growth and Economic Contributions
KSU’s continued growth is reflected in its current enrollment, with over 41,000 students calling the university home. This number solidifies KSU’s status as the second-largest university in Georgia. Previous studies have also shown that KSU’s economic impact was $1.65 billion in FY 2020, which indicates a progressive growth trend each successive year.
It’s worth noting that the University System of Georgia (USG) as a whole reported an astounding $21.9 billion economic impact across the state, a 9% increase from the previous year. Between the years 2022 and 2023 alone, the economic influence of the USG grew by nearly $2 billion, showcasing how vital these institutions are to Georgia’s economy.
Conclusion
The data presented in this report illustrates a vibrant and growing relationship between KSU and the economic fabric of Kennesaw and Georgia. As KSU continues to expand its reach and impact, both in education and local community engagement, it’s clear to see why this university holds a significant role in the area’s economic landscape.
FAQs
What is the economic impact of Kennesaw State University for fiscal year 2024?
Kennesaw State University reported an economic impact of over $2.3 billion for fiscal year 2024, reflecting a 7.1% increase from the previous year’s impact of $2.15 billion.
How many jobs does KSU support?
KSU supported a total of 16,621 jobs in FY 2024, which includes 4,373 jobs on campus and 12,248 jobs off-campus.
What factors contribute to KSU’s economic impact?
KSU’s economic impact is primarily attributed to education-related spending by students and additional spending by the university, employees, and students in the local community.
How many students are enrolled at KSU?
Currently, KSU has over 41,000 students enrolled, making it the second-largest university in Georgia.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kennesaw State University Shines with Record Economic Impact
Retail Shake-Up in Metro Atlanta: Joann Fabrics and Belk Close
Additional Resources
- WSB TV: KSU Contributes $2.3 Billion to Metro Atlanta Economy
- MDJ Online: Economic Impact of KSU Reaches $1.6 Billion
- The Center Square: Georgia Universities Report $21.9 Billion Economic Impact
- Wikipedia: Economic Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economics
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
