Part 9/12:
A drop in the college-age population by 10–20% could result in a $1.6 billion economic loss for Boston, roughly 1% of the city’s GDP. The repercussions extend beyond university revenue; a shrinking student base would reduce demand for local housing, hospitality, and retail, and could diminish the talent pipeline fueling Boston’s innovation sectors.
Despite its vibrant academic and industrial history, Boston’s resilience hinges on whether these institutions can adapt effectively. While Harvard, MIT, and a handful of other universities might remain stable, many smaller or less prestigious schools may face severe financial pressures, leading to higher acceptance rates and potentially more students from lower-income backgrounds.