UWRF study shows university has $295 million annual impact on region’s economy

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls 2026 Economic Impact Study shows that, by a conservative estimate, UWRF generates approximately $295 million in annual economic output for Pierce and St. Croix counties, accounting for 19% of the region’s gross domestic product. 

“The surrounding community and its members contribute immeasurably to the success of UW-River Falls and our students,” said Interim Chancellor John Chenoweth. “We are proud to be able to demonstrate—even conservatively—how much UWRF contributes to the vitality of our regional economy.” 

The report, compiled by the Survey Research Center (SRC) at UWRF, estimates spending in the region that would not have happened if the UWRF campus did not exist. The data comes from fiscal years 2023-2025, the latest year from which the data is available. 

Overall economic impact 

Two major components of this estimate include spending by UWRF students who either moved to the region or stayed in the region to attend UWRF ($16.9 million) and spending conducted by UWRF on operations and capital purchases ($101.4 million).  

Student spending includes categories such as food and drink at restaurants, groceries, rent, shopping, entertainment and gasoline, among others. UWRF campus spending included staff wages and benefits, other operating expenses and capital spending such as equipment, vehicles and construction.  

Job creation and workforce impact 

The study found that UWRF is responsible for creating or retaining 2,334 full-time equivalent jobs in the region, representing at least 6% of regional employment and generating $152.4 million annually in wages, salaries and benefits for local workers and business owners. 

Actual impact is likely higher 

Several significant economic contributions were not captured in the report, meaning the actual economic impact is likely higher.  

These factors include: 

• Visitor spending from Commencement, athletics and campus events. 
• Economic contributions of UW-River Falls alumni working in the region. 
• Local impacts of university interest payments. 

Importance to regional economic development 

In addition to preparing students for the future and providing a skilled workforce, UWRF serves as a major economic engine by attracting students and spending from outside the region, retaining local students who otherwise may have left the area and supporting local businesses through employee and student expenditures. 

“The University of Wisconsin-River Falls remains an essential partner and cornerstone of regional development,” said Lauren Highfill, executive director of the Pierce County Economic Development Corporation. “The university's contributions and impact on our local economy and quality of life are pivotal to Pierce County’s economic success.” 

“It’s clear that the impact of UW-River Falls extends far beyond the university boundaries and this region would not be what it is without this great institution,” said Melissa Meschke, executive director of the St. Croix Economic Development Corporation. “The university, its students and staff are key to the success of local businesses, industry and more, and are key to economic development growth and sustainability in the area.” 

“We are beyond grateful for the support of the people of western Wisconsin and we are thrilled to be able to contribute to the economic well-being of our communities,” Chenoweth said. “We soar higher together.” 

Read the full report at uwrf.edu/about/economic-impact-report.  

Photo: Students walk on the UW-River Falls campus in October 2025. A recently released study indicates the university has a $295 million annual economic impact on Pierce and St. Croix counties. UWRF photo.