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City of East Lansing

Michigan State University plays a critical role in the growth and vitality of the mid-Michigan region, with a particularly strong and enduring partnership with the City of East Lansing. This collaboration is essential to fostering a vibrant, dynamic community that supports employees, students and residents. MSU’s presence drives economic growth, attracts talent, and creates opportunities through cultural, educational, and recreational programs. In turn, City of East Lansing provides a welcoming environment that enhances the student experience and offers key resources and amenities for faculty and staff. Together, MSU and East Lansing continue to build a thriving community that exemplifies innovation, shared values, and long-term development.
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MSU’s spending toward local City of East Lansing vendors is essential to ensuring smooth campus operations while reinvesting in the community. These partnerships not only strengthen the local economy but also foster long-term relationships that enhance both university and city initiatives.
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The City of East Lansing benefits from over $7 million in annual income tax revenue generated by MSU’s employment base, reflecting the significant economic impact of faculty, staff, and student employees. This revenue supports essential city services and infrastructure, reinforcing the strong connection between the university and the community.
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According to a 2024 report by EducationData.org, the average college student in Michigan spends approximately $410 per month on dining out and $226 per month on groceries. With 28,450 students living in the City of East Lansing, this translates to nearly $18.1 million spent monthly on dining and groceries in the local economy. When considering MSU’s full enrollment of 50,344 students, that spending grows to $32.1 million per month, underscoring the significant economic contribution students make through their purchasing power.
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28,450 City of East Lansing Students

On campus:

  • 16,231 students in residents halls
  • 1,139 students in campus apartments

Off campus: 

  • 11,167 residing in the City of East Lansing 

MSU provides a built-in customer base that supports local businesses and creates steady demand for housing, dining, and recreational services in East Lansing. This concentration of students also draws families and visitors to the area, strengthens the city’s economy, and cultivates future residents.

Michigan State University generates a $3.4 billion annual economic impact in Ingham County, with $194 million spent at local businesses. Over 54,000 MSU alumni live and work in the county, further contributing to the area's growth and vibrancy. This presence strengthens the local economy, supports jobs, and fosters a collaborative relationship between the university and the community. For more details, visit the MSU Spartan Impact page.
A total of 28,450 MSU students live either on campus or within the City of East Lansing, creating a vibrant and engaged community. In addition, 1,661 MSU faculty and staff members, along with approximately xxx retired MSU employees, reside within city limits. Spartans are a driving force for both the university and the local community, contributing to City of East Lansing’s economic vitality, culture, and growth. This deep connection highlights the lasting impact of MSU’s presence on the region.

MSUvote is dedicated to empowering students to participate in local, state, and federal elections by fostering civic engagement on campus. Through partnerships with local clerks and the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office, MSU ensures that voting is accessible and streamlined for students. This effort encourages informed participation in City of East Lansing elections and beyond, helping students shape the future of their communities. Learn more at MSUvote.

MSU was named a “Gold Campus” for receiving a turnout rate higher than 40% — with turnout in 2022 reaching 7% higher than the national average for college campuses.

Other EL Partnerships

IRIS data - if we can get to city of East Lansing level 
Economic impact reports 

other data, etc

Mid-Michigan