Kennesaw, Georgia, August 14, 2025
News Summary
Kennesaw State University (KSU) has significantly increased its economic contribution to the metro Atlanta area, now reaching $2.3 billion for fiscal year 2024. This represents a 7.1% increase from the previous year, supported by spending from students and local businesses. KSU creates thousands of jobs, with 4,373 on-campus positions and 12,248 jobs generated in the surrounding community. Additionally, a degree from KSU offers graduates financial advantages, highlighting the university’s crucial role in regional growth and personal advancement.
Kennesaw: A Growing Economic Engine in Metro Atlanta
Kennesaw State University, often affectionately known as KSU, has made some eye-catching strides lately. The university’s economic impact on the metro Atlanta area has soared to $2.3 billion for the fiscal year 2024. This is quite an impressive feat, showcasing a 7.1% increase from the previous year’s contribution of $2.15 billion. These numbers were recently unveiled in a report from the University System of Georgia.
How KSU Makes a Difference
It’s not just about numbers; KSU’s impact can be felt throughout the community. A significant portion of this economic contribution comes from education-related spending and expenditures made by the university and its community members. Students alone have spent more than $1.4 billion on education-related expenses, which goes a long way in boosting local businesses. Even the surrounding communities feel this lift, thanks to the spending habits of the university’s employees and students.
KSU itself accounts for about $892 million in spending within the community. This includes everything from delightful dinners at local restaurants to shopping sprees at retail stores. The ripple effect is evident, as KSU’s activities support a whopping 16,621 jobs across various sectors in FY 2024.
The Job Market Boost
Breaking it down further, KSU has created 4,373 jobs on its campus, which is good news for those seeking opportunities in the education sector or on-campus positions. But the economic impact stretches far beyond campus boundaries, with an astonishing 12,248 jobs generated off campus in both the private and public sectors. This means that for every job created on campus, approximately 2.8 jobs are generated in the surrounding community. Isn’t that incredible?
The Value of Education
A Growing State Economy
Leaders from the University System of Georgia emphasized that obtaining a degree from Georgia’s public colleges is a substantial investment. Not only does it offer considerable financial returns for graduates, but it also fuels the state’s economy. This multifaceted impact underscores the vital role that educational institutions like KSU play in promoting both personal betterment and regional growth.
As KSU continues to flourish, it remains an essential part of the fabric of the metro Atlanta community. The university’s growth reflects the ongoing demand for higher education and its positive economic implications. KSU is definitely more than just a university; it’s an economic powerhouse helping to foster prosperity in the region.
FAQ Section
What is KSU’s economic impact for FY 2024?
KSU’s economic impact on metro Atlanta rose to over $2.3 billion for fiscal year 2024, representing a 7.1% increase from the previous year.
How many jobs does KSU create?
KSU supports a total of 16,621 jobs, with 4,373 jobs created on campus and 12,248 jobs generated in the local community.
What is the lifetime earning difference for KSU graduates?
Bachelor’s degree graduates from Georgia’s public colleges and universities will earn an estimated $1.4 million more in their lifetimes compared to those without a degree.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kennesaw Reports $2.3 Billion Economic Impact
Kennesaw State University Shines with Record Economic Impact
Retail Shake-Up in Metro Atlanta: Joann Fabrics and Belk Close
Additional Resources
- WSB TV: KSU Contributed $2.3 Billion to Metro Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Economic Impact
- Atlanta News First: 2026 World Cup Economic Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economics
- Fox 5 Atlanta: MLB All-Star Game Economic Impact
- Google Search: 2026 World Cup Economic Impact
- USA Today: Beyonce’s Tour Economic Impact
- Google News: MLB All-Star Game Economic Impact
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.
