Point of Pride #27 - Economic Impact of HCCC

Community colleges are a boon to the economy at large, as well as to individual students, and they create value in many ways. According to an economic impact study, in 2012 alone, the net total impact of community colleges on the U.S. economy was $809 billion in added income, equal to 5.4 percent of GDP.* 

Herkimer County Community College not only provides a great value for students and alumni, but also has a significant positive economic impact on the surrounding community. HCCC benefits the larger community through workforce development, an expanded economy, reduced social costs, higher business revenues, increased individual earnings and more career opportunities. HCCC students and alumni benefit from increased lifetime incomes and opportunities to achieve individual potential. Our society benefits as a whole from a more prosperous economy and a variety of savings generated through our graduates’ improved lifestyles that result in better health, lower rates of crime and less reliance on safety net services.

HCCC’s total impact amounts to an estimated $75 million in added income in Herkimer County each year.** Former HCCC students contribute $48.9 million in added regional income to the county each year due to higher earnings as a result of their education and increased output of businesses. The Herkimer County economy receives approximately $26.1 million in net added income each year due to HCCC operations and the spending of non-local students.

As a result of 50 years of contributions by HCCC and its graduates, numerous significant social and economic benefits can be seen here in Herkimer County, as well as in the greater region and throughout New York State.

*According to 2014 Economic Impact Study conducted for the American Association of Community Colleges by Economic Modeling Specialists International
**According to 2010 Economic Impact Study conducted for Herkimer County Community College by Economic Modeling Specialists International