Economic Impact
Samford University generated nearly $1.08 billion in economic output across Alabama in fiscal year 2025, supporting an estimated 7,646 jobs, $645.8 million in Alabama GDP and $426.3 million in personal income, according to a new independent study by the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama (PARCA).
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Samford contributes to the local and state economy through its year-round operations, capital investment, spending by students who come to Alabama from out of state, and spending associated with visitors to its Homewood campus.
University Operations
As the 14th largest employer in the Birmingham metro area and the largest in the city of Homewood, Samford’s ongoing operations represent the University’s largest and most consistent source of economic contribution.
3,230
Jobs Created
$255M
Operating Expenditures
2,157
Employees
Campus Visitor Spending
Throughout the year, Samford draws tens of thousands of visitors to Homewood for athletics, performances, lectures, conferences, admissions activities, alumni and family events, summer camps and other university functions.
2,334
Jobs Created
1.15M
Campus Visits
$161M
In Alabama GDP
Capital Investment
Capital investment expands Samford’s economic contribution during periods of major construction and facility development, such as the construction of the Campus Recreation, Wellness & Athletics Complex and new residence halls.
1,233
Jobs Created
$118M
In Capital Expenditures
653
Beds Added to Campus
Out-of-State Student Spending
Samford brings students and future professionals to Alabama from across the country. In fall 2025, 60.7% of students came from outside Alabama, and nearly 50% of alumni reside in Alabama.
3,838
Out-of-State Students
29,443
Alumni in Alabama
16,865
Alumni Living Outside Jefferson County
