Every building on a college or university campus is a recruiting tool. Attractive and functional facilities help schools achieve their enrollment goals and impact their standing in the surrounding community. Curb appeal matters. View this infographic for data about how facilities impact enrollment.
Beginning in 2026, experts are predicting what is being referred to as the “Demographic Cliff,” where high school student enrollment in the U.S. will experience an 18-year decline. This, in addition to the rise of hybrid work and online courses, will require universities to rethink how their spaces are utilized more so than ever before.
Here is a summary of what it looks like to face the demographic cliff:
Enrollment Projections: High school aged population in the U.S. will peak in 2026 at about 3.5 million students, then decline 15% over the next 18 years.
Student Perspectives: Nearly 30% of students report that poor maintenance, cleaning or general building conditions affect their ability to focus and learn.
Campus Conditions: 31% of students say poor maintenance hinders their learning experience.
Decision-Making: 20% of students consider campus facilities a significant factor in their college decision-making process, with over 60% acknowledging their role in this choice.
Financial and Maintenance Realities: The national backlog for higher education capital renewal projects exceeds $112 billion.
Average Build Age: Campus buildings in the U.S. have an average age of 50.
Deferred Maintenance: Listed as a top risk for institutions by United Educators.
Health and Safety Risks: Campus facility deficiencies represent significant health, safety and reliability risks.
As competition for students intensifies, investing wisely in campus facilities is essential. Effective use of facilities funds can help schools stand out and meet the evolving needs of today’s students, ensuring a better learning environment and stronger enrollment prospects.
Ready to make the most of your institution’s funds in the coming years? Explore our integrated solutions for college facility management today.
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