2025 E-Insights Report

College Persistence Rate

  • Raleigh-Durham leads in college persistence, driven by strong educational systems. Jacksonville and Atlanta face barriers like socioeconomic challenges and retention issues, needing targeted strategies.
  • Tampa Bay demonstrates stable persistence rates, with growth observed until 2019, though recent declines highlight the need for sustained efforts. Despite this, Tampa Bay remains among the top 10 MSAs, showcasing resilience and the potential for further progress through strategic interventions.
College Persistence Rate Chart

Trend Over Time

Trend Over Time

Competitive Position Trend

Competitive Trend Chart

Percentage of full-time students (undergraduate and above) who continued enrollment at same college/university after the first year of study. Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System.