college-towns

Community Snapshot

These 171 counties are scattered around the country and are generally located near large colleges and universities.

College Towns are home to nearly 25 million people. These counties also hold a large number of college graduates; 38% have at least a bachelor’s degree. Despite high levels of education, median household income in College Towns is $59,200, below the national average. Access to healthcare in these communities is more available than in other places, with nearly 100 fewer people per primary care physician than the national average. Similarly, the median ratio of population to mental health providers is 305:1, compared to the national average of 338:1. Voter turnout sits at 62%, which is 6 points below the national average.

Voting Engagement

62% Voter turnout

Percentage of citizen population aged 18 or older who voted in the 2020 U.S. Presidential election.

Vol. 3 2020-2021

Deaths of Despair Across America

The American Communities Project is undertaking a 30-month study of Deaths of Despair in its 15 community types.

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