2026 E-Insights Report

Share of Bachelor's Degrees in STEM

  • Tampa Bay exhibits steady but slow growth amidst competitive volatility. The region’s share of STEM degrees increased marginally from approximately 43% in 2020 to nearly 45% in 2024. However, this internal stability has not secured a strong competitive foothold; Tampa Bay’s ranking has fluctuated wildly, dropping from a peak of No. 11 in 2014 to a low of No. 17 (2017–2018) before recovering to No. 14 in 2024. This suggests the region is merely keeping pace with national trends rather than distinguishing itself as a rising tech talent hub.
  • Seattle cemented its role as the premier STEM powerhouse, holding the No. 1 position for the entire decade and reaching a dominant share of over 56% in 2024. In stark contrast, Nashville consistently anchored the bottom of the market (No. 20), with STEM degree shares hovering near 40–42%, highlighting a massive structural gap in technical talent production compared to leaders like Seattle and San Diego.
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Trend Over Time

Trend Over Time Line Graph

Competitive Position Trend

Competitive Position Trend Line Graph

Share of Bachelor’s Degrees in STEM measures the percentage of the population holding a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics. Definition: STEM fields include computer and information sciences, engineering, mathematics, and natural sciences (biological and physical). Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS), Table B15010: Detailed Field of Bachelor’s Degree for First Major for the Population 25 Years and Over, 2013–2024.