Temple University and Temple Health: A $11.1 Billion Economic Engine for Pennsylvania
Temple University and its affiliated healthcare system, Temple Health, collectively represent a significant economic force in Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Together, they are the fourth-largest employer in the city, generating a total economic impact of $11.1 billion annually and supporting nearly 52,000 jobs, according to a recent economic impact study commissioned by the university and completed by Econsult Solutions, Inc.
Economic Impact in Philadelphia and Pennsylvania
Within the City of Philadelphia, Temple University and Temple Health generate almost $7.7 billion in economic impact, sustaining 1 in every 15 jobs. Across the greater Philadelphia region, the institutions support nearly 48,000 jobs.
“Temple and Temple Health are two of Philadelphia’s most important anchor institutions, and this economic impact study is the latest evidence of that,” said Temple President John Fry. “Temple is a force multiplier in the city, region and the Commonwealth, and our impact will further grow in the years to come as we begin the implementation process of our strategic plan, Forward with Purpose.”
Research and Innovation
As a designated R1 institution, Temple University’s annual research expenditures exceed $300 million . Approximately 67% of this research funding comes from outside of Pennsylvania, bringing over $200 million in funding to the region.
Temple Health’s Expanding Reach
Temple Health has experienced significant expansion in recent years, operating facilities including Temple University Hospital, Temple Chestnut Hill Hospital, Temple Women’s and Families Hospital, and the renowned Fox Chase Cancer Center .
The health system operates 990 licensed beds and provides 1.6 million outpatient visits, 37,000 admissions, 23,000 inpatient and outpatient surgeries, and 340 organ transplants annually. In 2025, Temple Health performed a record-breaking 179 lung transplants, more than any other health system in the country .
“Temple Health occupies a unique role as both a destination for advanced, complex care, and as an integral community health partner providing critical services to patients across the region,” said Abhi Rastogi, MBA, MIS, President and CEO of Temple Health. “Alongside the University, we’re focused on purposeful growth that expands access to life-changing care, remains rooted in the communities we serve, and stays at the leading edge of clinical excellence and scientific impact.”
Alumni and State Investment
Temple University’s 380,000-plus alumni, including over 200,000 residing in Pennsylvania, contribute an estimated $2.5 billion to the state’s economy through their earnings.
As a state-related institution, Temple receives an annual appropriation, most recently $158.2 million, which provides a $15,000 annual tuition discount to its more than 20,000 in-state undergraduate students. The economic impact study reveals that for every $1 in state funding, Temple delivers $168 in statewide economic impact.
Tax Revenue Contribution
Temple University’s employees generate substantial tax revenue for both Pennsylvania and Philadelphia—$276 million annually for the Commonwealth and $160 million for the city. This represents $1 out of every $173 in Pennsylvania’s General Fund and $1 out of every $40 in Philadelphia’s General Fund.