Boise State Adds $2.2B to Idaho Economy, Supports 28K Jobs

Boise State University just became Idaho's economic MVP, pumping $2.2 billion into the state's economy and proving higher education can deliver serious returns for everyone involved.

The numbers tell an impressive story. The university now represents 1.9% of Idaho's entire economic output, making its impact bigger than the state's entire utilities industry. That's a massive jump from the $1.6 billion impact measured just five years ago.

Here's what that growth means on the ground: Boise State supports 28,026 jobs across Idaho. Whether it's through university operations, research projects, construction, visitor spending, or the ripple effects of student purchases, one out of every 45 jobs in the state connects back to the university.

The analysis, conducted by Lightcast, a national leader in economic impact studies, shows taxpayers are getting an incredible deal. For every dollar of public funding invested in Boise State, taxpayers receive $2.40 back through increased tax revenues and public sector savings. The university received $144.2 million in state and local funding but generated $347.7 million in taxpayer benefits.

Students are winning even bigger. The average bachelor's degree graduate from Boise State earns $24,100 more per year than someone with just a high school diploma working in Idaho. Over a lifetime, that adds up to nearly $1 million in additional earnings per graduate.

The return on investment beats Wall Street. Students see $4.20 back for every dollar they invest in their education, with an average 16% annual return rate. That exceeds the stock market's 30-year average, making a Boise State degree one of the smartest investments an Idaho resident can make.

The Ripple Effect goes far beyond individual paychecks. The latest graduating class is projected to generate $1.5 billion in increased future earnings collectively. That money strengthens Idaho's workforce, expands the tax base, and creates new opportunities for businesses and communities throughout the state.

Interim President Jeremiah Shinn emphasized the university's role as an economic engine. "Each day, our students, faculty and staff drive job creation, prepare a skilled workforce and contribute to long-term prosperity across our state," he said.

The report arrives as states nationwide debate higher education funding and workforce development strategies. Idaho's example shows that investing in public universities creates measurable economic returns that benefit entire states, not just graduates.

When education dollars come back doubled for taxpayers and quadrupled for students, everyone moves forward together.