Gardner report: USU generated $1.4 billion in GDP, $2.2 billion in economic output in 2023

A new report from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah outlines the major economic impact on the state’s economy of Utah State University in Logan. 

The study, commissioned by the Utah System of Higher Education, found that USU supported more than 17,000 jobs with $1 billion in earnings, $1.4 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) and $2.2 billion in economic output (total sales) statewide in fiscal year 2023.

“Utah State University strengthens Utah’s economy through high-quality education; research and innovation; institutional, student and visitor spending; and broad societal benefits,” the report authors concluded.

“As a land-grant university, we are deeply committed to serving the public good,” USU Interim President Al Smith said. “This study confirms that we are not only changing lives but also driving billions in economic impact across the state. USU plays a vital role in strengthening local economies, expanding opportunity and fueling innovation. It’s a powerful reminder that investing in higher education is investing in Utah.”

“Utah State University contributes meaningfully to Utah’s economy — not only by educating students and strengthening the workforce, but also through its employment, spending and research activity,” said Andrea Brandley, senior education analyst and lead author of the report. “These activities generate ripple effects across Utah, supporting jobs, businesses and economic growth statewide.”

Key findings from the report include the following:

Education. USU enrolled more than 28,000 students across more than 300 degree and certificate programs during the 2022-23 academic year. USU awarded 6,764 degrees and certificates during this same period. More than half of USU graduates work in-state five years after graduation.

Employment. USU directly employed 10,436 individuals in FY 2023, making it the largest employer in Cache County and the seventh-largest employer statewide. Including indirect and induced jobs, USU supports more than 17,000 jobs in Utah.

Economic Activity. USU supported a total of $1 billion in earnings, $1.4 billion in gross domestic product, and $2.2 billion in output (total sales) in Utah in FY 2023.

Research. USU received $450 million in research funding in FY 2023, with 74 percent coming from federal sources, bringing new money to the state. This research funding supports 6,665 jobs, $385 million in earnings, $518 million in GDP and $967 million in output statewide, a significant portion of USU’s total economic contribution.

Societal Benefits. Beyond its quantifiable economic contribution, USU benefits its students, employees and community across four key areas: workforce quality and development, research and commercialization, student experience and community support and services.

The full report is available through the Gardner Institute website at gardner.utah.edu.