Economic Impact Report
For nearly two centuries, our world-class research university has been an anchor of stability, a pillar of strength, and a catalyst for innovation.
For nearly two centuries, our world-class research university has been an anchor of stability, a pillar of strength, and a catalyst for innovation.
Overall Impact
Tulane University plays a direct role in the purchasing of goods and services from local and regional vendors and the employment of thousands across Southeast Louisiana. This direct, local economic activity has myriad spillover effects on the broader economy, supporting regional employment and tax revenue.
annual economic impact in the state of Louisiana*
annual economic impact in New Orleans
annual tax revenue to Louisiana
*The previous economic impact report highlighted Tulane’s contribution to the state of Louisiana as $3.14 billion. By 2033, the projected impact is expected to reach $6.1 billion.
“This report underscores Tulane’s vital and unique role as a game-changing economic engine for the New Orleans region and the entire state of Louisiana. Our presence as a world-class university not only improves lives through breakthroughs, discoveries and transformational education, we are also a foundational and primary driver of sustained economic growth throughout our community and state that benefits everyone.”
- Tulane President Michael A. Fitts
"These results should come as no surprise, given the lasting impacts Tulane University has had on our state and the city of New Orleans for generations. The economic benefits, high-paying jobs and new projects Tulane continues to pursue help make the university and the city of New Orleans a premiere location for students across the globe. With Tulane’s continued commitment to our state, I am confident we can make Louisiana a place where people want to stay and grow their business and family. Roll Wave!"
- Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry
Employment and Wages
Recognized by Forbes as the state’s top employer, the university's contributions extend beyond traditional academia, encompassing translational, lifesaving research, public health initiatives, and community engagement. Initiatives such as the Innovation Institute have catalyzed not only job creation but also the emergence of a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem in the New Orleans region, Louisiana, and beyond.
jobs supported in the state of Louisiana
jobs supported in New Orleans
jobs supported by capital investments
Alumni Wage Premium
The higher earnings of Tulane graduates support roughly $461 million in economic activity within the state, fostering approximately 2,320 additional jobs. This ripple effect strengthens Louisiana’s economic landscape through increased spending, tax revenue, and overall business activity.
Spending
The economic impact attributed to ancillary spending by students, patients, and visitors is estimated to be approximately $223 million, sustaining around 1,560 direct, indirect, and resultant jobs throughout Louisiana. Local businesses, including restaurants, retail stores, and service providers, experience dramatic increases in customers and revenue due to Tulane’s presence.
Development and Growth
Tulane University aims to achieve sustainable growth, projecting a 26 percent increase in student enrollment to 17,700 and a 9 percent expansion of its operating budget to $1.4 billion over the next decade. To support this growth, Tulane is embarking on a $716 million capital expansion.
Strategic Investments
Tulane University's capital investments play a crucial role in enhancing the infrastructure of the region while stimulating the local economy. These investments include the construction and renovation of academic buildings, research facilities, and residential spaces.
supported annually
statewide economic impact
in employee compensation
"Tulane has been an incredible anchor and driver for our local economy for decades through the creation of high-paying jobs, talent recruitment, and transformative projects like its $600 million historic downtown expansion. Studies like these demonstrate that our city is on the right track toward building a better and more prosperous economy thanks to the work of Tulane, and we look forward to our continued partnership in the years to come."
- New Orleans City Council President Helena Moreno
Charity Hospital
One of Tulane’s most ambitious projects is the redevelopment of the historic Charity Hospital. This $635 million project will transform the downtown New Orleans campus into a major research and innovation hub, generating a $1.2 billion economic impact on the state. The mixed-use complex will accommodate about 1,000 students, faculty, and staff.
BioDistrict Downtown
Tulane is investing over $600 million to further enhance our downtown campus and develop BioDistrict New Orleans. This initiative aims to attract new capital investments and talent, solidifying New Orleans as a hub for biosciences and innovation.
“For nearly two centuries, Tulane University has been a cornerstone of New Orleans, and this economic impact study underscores just how vital the university is to our region's prosperity. Under President Michael Fitts' leadership, Tulane's expansion and innovation are transforming our region by fostering growth and attracting talent. Tulane exemplifies the adage that the way to create a great city is to create a great university and wait 200 years!”
- Michael Hecht, President and CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc.
This report expands upon an economic and social impact study conducted by Econsult Solutions, Inc. (ESI) in 2019, incorporating the University’s recent achievements and future goals. For details on data collection and organization, to read a summary of the report, or request a copy of the full report please refer to the report methodology overview.
