The University of Alabama at Birmingham had a $12.1 billion economic impact on Alabama in 2022, a 41% increase from $7.15 billion in 2016 and a 163% increase from $7.15 billion in 2008.
“UAB is the most significant contributor to the Alabama economy and the leading generator of jobs,” the report by Tripp Umbach said.
According to the report, UAB generated more than $371 million in state and local taxes and supported or sustained 107,600 jobs in Alabama.
“We are proud that our positive impact in Alabama and on Alabamians continues to grow with the active partnership and support of the University of Alabama System Office and UA System Board of Trustees,” UAB President Ray Watts said. “We exist to improve lives, and this report is evidence of our growing impact.”
One in every 20 jobs within the state of Alabama is either held directly by a UAB employee or is supported as a result of UAB’s presence, the report said.
“The rapid growth of UAB’s economic impact has far exceeded our expectations,” said UAB Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration Brian Burnett. “This report is proof that Forging the Future, UAB’s strategic plan led by President Watts and supported by our talented students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters, continues to guide our institution’s purposeful growth to unprecedented results.”
Among other findings from the report, UAB’s academic enterprise generated $5.5 billion in statewide economic impact, while the UAB Health System generated $6.4 billion. UAB’s charitable giving and volunteerism were estimated to deliver $115.4 million in statewide impact, up from $80.5 million in 2016. UAB affiliate Southern Research generated $221.8 million in statewide economic impact, supported and sustained 1,514 jobs and generated $206.2 million in state and local taxes.
