2026 E-Insights Report

Black-White Educational Attainment Rate Gap

  • The Black–White educational attainment gap in Tampa Bay has fluctuated over the past decade, rising from 9.6% in 2015 to 11.2% in 2024. This places Tampa Bay in the mid-range among comparison MSAs, indicating persistent racial disparities in higher-education access and completion.
  • Houston, Phoenix, Dallas, and Charlotte consistently recorded some of the smallest gaps (often between 5–13%), reflecting comparatively lower racial disparities in bachelor’s degree attainment. In contrast, Denver, Miami, Minneapolis, San Diego, and Raleigh–Durham exhibited the largest gaps—frequently exceeding 20%— indicating substantial education inequity across racial groups.

Bar Graph

Trend Over Time

Trend Over Time Line Graph

Competitive Position Trend

Competitive Position Trend Line Graph

The Black–White Educational Attainment Rate Gap measures the percentage-point difference between Black and White adults age 25 and over who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. This indicator highlights racial disparities in access to higher education — a key driver of income, employment opportunities, and long-term economic mobility. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS), Table S1501: Educational Attainment, 2015–2024.