Georgia State University generated $3.22 billion in economic activity across Georgia in fiscal year 2024, according to the University System of Georgia’s (USG) annual economic impact report. The university also supported more than 21,000 full- and part-time jobs, reinforcing its role as a key driver of the state economy.
The report highlights how spending by Georgia State on personnel, operations, and student expenditures fuels growth in Atlanta and beyond. Georgia State President M. Brian Blake said the university’s location in the state capital strengthens its influence. “We ensure that students from every background can achieve success, so that means our economic impact also represents generational impact — we transform lives, strengthen families and shape the future of our city and our state,” he said.
Georgia State’s contribution rose nearly 3 percent from the previous year and accounts for about 9 percent of the $23.1 billion in total statewide impact from all 26 USG institutions. Across the system, more than 168,000 jobs were supported in fiscal 2024, with direct spending of $15.2 billion creating an additional $7.9 billion in multiplier effects across local economies.
The report also assessed the long-term value of higher education. A companion study projected that Georgia’s Class of 2024 bachelor’s graduates will earn, on average, $1.4 million more over their lifetimes compared to peers without a degree. For the 73,006 graduates across USG institutions, this translates into combined lifetime earnings of $230 billion — a $73 billion boost linked directly to higher education.
Donald Hamelberg, vice president for Research and Economic Development at Georgia State, emphasized the link between academic investment and future growth. “Our work today drives innovation, attracts businesses, creates jobs and builds a skilled workforce, all of which deliver long-term benefits for the entire region,” he said.
Both studies were conducted by the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business.
