Driving Oregon’s Economic Growth

Oregon’s 17 community colleges are powerful economic engines, strengthening local communities, supporting businesses, and preparing the skilled workforce our state needs to thrive. According to a 2026 economic impact study conducted by Lightcast, Oregon’s community colleges generate $11 billion in annual economic impact and support more than 120,000 jobs statewide—equivalent to one out of every 23 jobs in Oregon. This economic contribution represents approximately 3.7% of Oregon’s gross state product and includes $9.9 billion generated by community college alumni through increased earnings and workplace productivity. From health care and advanced manufacturing to construction and public safety, community colleges play a vital role in developing the workforce that keeps Oregon’s economy moving.

Investing in Oregon’s community colleges delivers significant returns for students, taxpayers, and communities. The study found that for every $1 students invest in their community college education, they receive $4.70 in higher lifetime earnings. Taxpayers receive $1.40 in benefits for every $1 of public funding invested, while Oregon society as a whole receives $6.50 in economic and social benefits for every $1 invested. Additionally, the average community college associate degree graduate earns approximately $9,800 more annually than someone with only a high school diploma. These findings demonstrate that Oregon’s community colleges are not only gateways to educational opportunity and family-wage careers, but also essential investments in the state’s long-term economic prosperity.

Source: Lightcast, The Economic Value of Oregon’s Community Colleges (2026), based on fiscal year 2023–24 data.