Citrus College's local economic impact exceeds $1 billion

Citrus College has become a billion-dollar economic force in Los Angeles County, according to a new study that finds the college generated $1.1 billion in economic impact and supported 11,270 jobs during the 2024-2025 fiscal year.

Lightcast, a leading provider of labor market data, analyzed the economic contributions of Citrus College alumni and their employers, the daily spending of Citrus College students in the county, the college's operations budget, and the college's construction spending. Together, these four areas generated $1.1 billion in added economic activity for Los Angeles County, an increase of $152.8 million, or 16.1%, since the previous study of Citrus College in 2024.

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"We are proud of the measurable impact our college makes across Los Angeles County and value the vital role we play in strengthening and sustaining the local economy," said Dr. Greg Schulz, superintendent/president of Citrus College. "Citrus College has a long history of creating opportunities that strengthen our communities, and these findings demonstrate that the effect of those opportunities extends far beyond the classroom."

In its report, "The Economic Value of Citrus College," Lightcast also found that increased earnings among Citrus College alumni and the businesses that employ them totaled $951.1 million, which is equivalent to supporting 9,482 jobs. This represents an economic boost similar to hosting the Super Bowl three times.

Additionally, the college's annual payroll and other operational expenditures generated $135.7 million in added income, while its funding of ongoing construction projects had a $2.6 million benefit to the region. Finally, the daily spending of Citrus College students who are attracted to or retained in the county generated $54.3 million in added income, enough to cover a year's worth of groceries for 3,702 families.

"Our college's $1.1 billion economic impact on Los Angeles County begins with our graduates," Dr. Schulz added. "When our students complete their education and enter the workforce, they bring with them the skills and knowledge they gained at Citrus College. They then use what they have learned to contribute to the success of their employers, the industries in which they work and the communities they call home. Their Citrus College educations create a ripple effect that benefit the entire county, demonstrating the lasting value of investing in our students."

The return on a Citrus College education extends beyond the regional economy. According to Lightcast, taxpayers gain $1.30 in added tax revenue and public sector savings for every $1 invested in Citrus College, while society gains $12.50 in added income and social savings for every $1 invested.

Citrus College graduates also see a significant return on their educational investment, gaining an estimated $10.30 in higher lifetime earnings for every $1 they invest in their education. On average, an associate degree graduate from Citrus College can expect to earn approximately $10,400 more each year than a California worker whose highest level of education is a high school diploma.

"The economic impact of Citrus College is a powerful reflection of the contributions our students, graduates, faculty and staff make throughout Los Angeles County," said Laura Bollinger, president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees. "We are proud to see the benefits of a Citrus College education reflected not only in the success of our graduates, but also in the strength and vitality of our local economy."

To read an executive summary of the Lightcast report, click here (PDF, 3.6 MB).