How Many Community Colleges Are in the United States?

Community colleges serve as vital pillars of American higher education, offering affordable, flexible pathways to personal growth, career advancement, and lifelong learning. But just how many community colleges operate across the U.S. today?

The Official Count in 2025

As of 2025, there are 1,113 accredited community colleges nationwide. This number reflects steady growth since the early 2020s, driven by rising demand for accessible education and workforce development programs. These institutions serve over 11 million students annually, making community colleges the second-largest segment of higher education after public universities.

Regional Distribution of Community Colleges

Community colleges are widely distributed across all 50 states, with the largest concentrations in high-population and economically diverse regions. California leads with 114 institutions, followed by Texas (87), New York (78), and Florida (69). Midwestern states like Illinois (54) and Ohio (51) also maintain strong networks supporting local economies.

The Role and Impact of Community Colleges

Beyond enrollment numbers, community colleges play a transformative role in U.S. education and labor markets. They provide critical access to higher education for first-generation students, veterans, and underserved populations. Programs span vocational training, associate degrees, and transfer pathways to four-year colleges, all tailored to regional workforce needs.

Recent data shows that nearly 40% of associate degrees earned in the U.S. originate from community colleges, underscoring their importance in closing educational and economic gaps.

Supporting Keywords and LSI Terms

• Community college enrollment trends
  
• Affordable higher education options
  
• Workforce training programs
  
• Regional college accessibility
  
• Career advancement pathways
  

Planning Your Future at a Community College

With affordable tuition, flexible schedules, and diverse programs, community colleges empower learners across all backgrounds. Whether pursuing a career, transferring to a university, or exploring new interests, these institutions offer clear, practical routes forward. Ready to start your journey? Visit your local community college today and explore the opportunities waiting for you.

Start today—your next chapter begins at a community college near you.