An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of South Florida’s St. Thomas University on Florida’s Economy An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of South Florida’s St. Thomas University on Florida’s Economy

An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of South Florida’s St. Thomas University on Florida’s Economy

/ Categories: Research, Economic Development, Education, ROI Study

St. Thomas University (STU) plays a large role in Florida’s economy, fostering workforce development and economic mobility, particularly for underrepresented communities. This Florida TaxWatch ROI report evaluates STU’s impact, highlighting its contributions to job creation, income growth, and return on investment. With record-breaking enrollment, a diverse student body, and strong financial stability, STU generates over $1.5 billion in economic output and supports more than 8,500 jobs. Every $1 spent on STU results in $21.50 of economic output.

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An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Indian River State College An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Indian River State College

An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Indian River State College

/ Categories: Research, Economic Development, Education, ROI Study

The Florida TaxWatch report reveals the substantial economic and educational contributions of Indian River State College (IRSC) to Florida's Treasure Coast and the broader state economy. IRSC, recognized for its affordability and high-quality programs, plays a pivotal role in workforce development through its extensive certificate and degree offerings. The report emphasizes the college's efforts in minimizing student debt and enhancing job readiness through strategic partnerships with businesses and local schools. Economically, IRSC creates over 15,000 jobs annually and generates a significant economic output, with every dollar spent translating into a substantial return for the Florida economy. This analysis serves as a crucial resource for understanding the intersection of education and economic growth, and the strategic role of community colleges like IRSC in fostering regional economic development.

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Briefing: Are Floridians Ready to Go Back to School? Not Without More Teachers… Briefing: Are Floridians Ready to Go Back to School? Not Without More Teachers…

Briefing: Are Floridians Ready to Go Back to School? Not Without More Teachers…

2024 Update

/ Categories: Research, Education, Workforce Development

Florida faces a critical teacher shortage, ranking 50th in teacher pay nationwide. Our briefing reveals alarming trends: 10% of courses lack properly certified teachers, and teacher pay has dropped 15.7% in real terms over the past decade. With Florida needing 9.7% more teachers by 2031, the state's educational future hangs in the balance. Our comprehensive report explores the root causes of this crisis, from inadequate compensation to mounting stress, and examines recent policy actions. More importantly, it offers concrete solutions to attract and retain quality educators.

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1/14/2026
Florida Economic Forecast: 2025-2034

Florida Economic Forecast: 2025-2034

Florida’s economy—valued at $1.76 trillion in Q1 2025—entered the year with strong momentum, but this Q3 2025 Florida TaxWatch forecast projects a return toward more “normal,” pre-pandemic growth rates over the next several years. While Florida’s population is still expected to climb to roughly 25.9 million by 2034, net migration is projected to cool as higher costs (housing, insurance, taxes) and other pressures weigh on in-migration.

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1/15/2026
Save Our Taxpayers - Property Tax Relief Must be Accomplished Equitably

Save Our Taxpayers - Property Tax Relief Must be Accomplished Equitably

Florida property tax levies have been rising rapidly—increasing by nearly 40 percent in just the last three years and more than doubling in the last ten years—with property taxes now totaling $59.2 billion (FY2025–26). With the Legislature’s increased focus on affordability, especially housing affordability, property taxes are expected to be a top issue during the 2026 legislative session.

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