California’s community colleges generate nearly $130B in economic activity, in new report

A new study released Monday by the California Community Colleges found that the system of 116 campuses generates $128.2 billion in economic activity.

The study was conducted by Emsi Burning Glass and analyzed academic and financial reports from the community college system, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Census Bureau. The report estimates that for every $1 invested in the community college system, students gain $5 in earnings and taxpayers see a $2 net benefit in added tax revenue from students’ higher lifetime earnings and increased output by businesses.

“This study validates the clear fact that California’s community colleges are an investment playing a critical role in driving the state’s economy and making a difference in millions of lives daily,” said Eloy Ortiz Oakley, chancellor of the community college system.