Explore the economic impact of anchor institutions in 520 regions across the United States. The reliance index demonstrates how dependent regional economies are on these institutions and provides a measure of the national average.
Universities and hospitals, as anchor institutions, significantly contribute to local economies by providing jobs and services. But what happens in downturns? This study analyzes the economic performance of State College, PA, during three recessions.
In addition to regional data, the Anchor Economy dashboard details state-level measures of the economic impact of anchor institutions. In this article, Deborah Diamond shares insights from three experts about using these data to support their work.
About the Dashboard
The Anchor Economy Dashboard answers two critical questions for regions in the U.S.
What is the economic impact of higher education institutions and hospitals (anchor institutions) on the regions they are in and how dependent are regions on anchor institutions for overall economic activity? The Anchor Economy Dashboard presents first-ever anchor impacts for the entire U.S. by region and a new “reliance index,” demonstrating how dependent regional economies are on these institutions.
The tool was updated in April 2026 to include the regional economic impacts of higher education institutions and hospitals separately so users can better understand the respective economic contributions of these institutions in their region.
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Suggested Citation:
Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.
Anchor Economy Dashboard.
Accessed May. 13, 2026,
https://www.philadelphiafed.org/surveys-and-data/community-development-data/anchor-economy-dashboard.
