KENTFIELD / NOVATO, CA—College of Marin (COM) released a comprehensive report detailing its significant economic and social contributions to the local community and the state of California. The independent study, Enhancing Educational Access and Community Prosperity in Marin County, reveals that the College generates $156.9 million in annual economic impact and supports 900 jobs within Marin County alone.
Conducted by Econsult Solutions, Inc., a leading economic consulting firm, the report quantifies the College's impact through its operations, capital investments, and the increased earning power of its alumni. The findings underscore the College's role as a powerful economic engine and a vital community partner as it approaches its centennial celebration in 2026.
Key findings from the report include:
- Massive Local Impact: COM’s activities generate an annual economic impact of:
- $156.9 million in Marin County
- $209.9 million statewide
- Significant Job Creation: The College supports 900 jobs in Marin County and 1,100 jobs across California, making it one of the county’s key employers.
- Empowering Alumni: COM graduates living in California earn a collective $76 million more annually due to the "alumni wage premium" from their education, fueling the economy through increased household spending.
- Strong Return for Taxpayers: The College’s economic activity generates nearly $17 million in annual tax revenue for the state of California, demonstrating a significant return on public investment.
“This report puts concrete numbers to what we have long known: College of Marin is a cornerstone of our community’s prosperity,” said Superintendent/President Dr. Jonathan Eldridge. “Beyond the impressive figures, this is a story about opportunity. It’s about providing pathways to high-wage careers in fields like healthcare, helping local students transfer to top universities, and serving as a vibrant cultural hub for all residents. As we prepare to celebrate our 100th anniversary, these findings reaffirm our commitment to being a driving force for economic mobility and a steadfast partner in Marin’s future.”
The report highlights not only the direct economic footprint of the College but also its broader catalytic effects. By offering critical training in high-demand fields such as nursing and dental assisting, COM directly addresses regional workforce needs. It's two campuses in Kentfield and Novato serve as community hubs, offering arts and culture, access to fitness facilities, and lifelong learning opportunities for residents of all ages. With access to the nearby Duxbury Reef, the recently rebuilt Bolinas Field Station provides endless opportunities for marine biology education and research.
The full report, Enhancing Educational Access and Community Prosperity in Marin County, is available for public viewing and download online.
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About College of Marin:Established in 1926, College of Marin remains committed to educational excellence, providing equitable opportunities, and fostering success for all members of its diverse community. With campuses in Kentfield and Novato, and a field station in Bolinas, students of all ages have affordable access to an exciting variety of credit and noncredit courses as well as community education classes for lifelong learning. College of Marin is one of 116 public community colleges in California and more than 14,000 credit, noncredit, and community education students enroll annually. COM Branding Guidelines (updated 8/2025)