Are People Still Going to College? What the Statistics Tell Us

Rising tuition costs, a shifting job market, and the increasing availability of alternative education paths have made many question whether college is still the best option for young adults. Despite these challenges, the statistics show that higher education offers significant benefits, especially regarding long-term career prospects. But who exactly is going to college, and how have enrollment trends changed?

Who Is Going to College? Demographics of U.S. University Enrollment

In the past five years, college enrollment has experienced fluctuations, with some notable demographic shifts. Overall, enrollment in both public and private universities has been declining since 2010.

According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, total undergraduate enrollment dropped by about 6% between the fall of 2019 and 2023. However, spring 2024 marked the second consecutive semester of enrollment growth since the declines experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the greatest increase was seen at community colleges and public universities.

Gender Trends

Women continue to outnumber men in college enrollment, a trend that has been growing over the past two decades. As of fall 2023, the college enrollment rate for recent high school graduates aged 16 to 24 was higher for young women (65.3%) than young men (57.6%). Additionally, women are likelier to graduate from college than their male counterparts. This gap has raised concerns about men’s decreasing participation in higher education, which could have long-term economic consequences.

Race and Ethnicity

College attendance varies significantly by race and ethnicity. White students represented nearly 46% of the college population in 2019, but this share declined to 41% by 2023. Hispanic and Latino/a students were the only racial or ethnic group to see an increase in undergraduate enrollment during this period, rising by just over 1%. Conversely, Black and Native American enrollment rates have seen notable declines in recent years.

Socioeconomic Status

Socioeconomic factors also play a major role in who attends college. Students from lower-income families are less likely to enroll in four-year institutions despite financial aid programs. Rising tuition costs and concerns over student loan debt deter many potential students from pursuing higher education, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Job Outlook: College Graduates vs. High School Graduates

While the cost of college can seem daunting, the job market still heavily favors those with a degree. The earnings gap between college and high school graduates widens, and college-educated workers enjoy better employment opportunities and greater job security.

Earnings and Employment Rates

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), workers with a bachelor’s degree earned a median weekly income of $1,499 in 2023, compared to $905 for those with only a high school diploma. That’s a difference of more than $30,000 annually. Additionally, the unemployment rate for individuals with a bachelor’s degree was just 2.5%, while high school graduates faced a higher unemployment rate of 4.6%.

Long-Term Career Growth

The benefits of a college degree extend beyond initial earnings. Over time, college graduates tend to experience more upward mobility in their careers. They are also more likely to enter leadership roles and industries with strong future growth potential, such as technology, healthcare, and finance. This means that the return on investment for a college degree, particularly in high-demand fields, can be substantial.

Why Is College Enrollment Declining?

While the advantages of a college degree remain clear, several factors have contributed to declining enrollment in recent years. These challenges have led many young people to reconsider whether higher education is worth the investment.

Rising Tuition Costs

One of the most significant deterrents is the rising cost of tuition. The average cost of tuition at public four-year institutions increased by 36.7% from 2010 to 2023, though public institutions remain more affordable. For example, the cost of tuition, room, and board for in-state students at public four-year colleges in California averaged $23,037 in 2019–20; for students at California’s private universities, that total was $51,750. Rising tuition rates are also linked to concerns about loan debt, which now exceeds $1.7 trillion nationally. Many students are wary of taking on large financial burdens for their education.

Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic also played a major role in declining enrollment. Many students deferred college plans during the height of the pandemic due to uncertainty about online learning, financial difficulties, or personal health concerns. Although some have since returned, overall enrollment has not fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels.

Possible Solutions to Increase College Enrollment

Despite these challenges, several potential solutions exist to make college more accessible and appealing, especially for underrepresented groups.

Making College More Affordable

Expanding financial aid programs, offering more scholarships, and finding creative ways to keep tuition costs stable could make college more affordable. Some states have even introduced tuition-free community college programs, which provide a valuable stepping-stone to a four-year degree. Similarly, clear transfer pathways from community colleges to public four-year colleges can help students keep costs in check.

Improving the Perception of Higher Education

Universities can do more to highlight the long-term value of a college degree, especially in terms of job placement and career growth. Building stronger partnerships with industries can help students secure internships and post-graduation employment, making the transition from education to the workforce smoother.

Expanding Flexible Learning Options

Increasing the availability of online and hybrid learning options allows students to balance school with work and family responsibilities. These programs can be especially beneficial for non-traditional students or those who cannot relocate to attend a specific institution.