A new report from Colorado reveals a positive shift in higher education trends, with fewer college students leaving school burdened by loans. Released in August 2025 by the Colorado Department of Higher Education, the annual Return on Investment report highlights that only 43 percent of graduates had debt in the 2022-2023 academic year, down from 61 percent a decade earlier, thanks to increased state funding and affordability programs.
Key Findings from the Latest Report
The report focuses on public colleges and universities across Colorado, combining data for associate and bachelor’s degree holders. It shows a clear drop in both the number of students taking on debt and the average amount they owe.
Experts point to several factors driving this change, including more scholarships, lower tuition growth, and better financial aid access. For many families, this means higher education feels more reachable without long-term financial strain.
The data also notes that graduates with debt now owe an average of $22,100, compared to $24,000 ten years ago. This reduction saves students thousands and eases entry into the workforce.
How Debt Levels Have Changed Over Time
Looking back, Colorado has made steady progress in tackling student debt. In 2013-2014, debt was a common reality for most graduates, but targeted policies have turned the tide.
State investments in education have played a big role. For example, programs like the College Opportunity Fund provide stipends that cut costs for in-state students.
Here is a quick comparison of key debt metrics over the years:
| Academic Year | Percentage of Graduates with Debt | Average Debt Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 2013-2014 | 61% | $24,000 |
| 2022-2023 | 43% | $22,100 |
This table illustrates the downward trend, based on the report’s analysis of thousands of graduates.
Recent years show even more promise, with enrollment in debt-free pathways rising by 15 percent since 2020. Community colleges, in particular, have seen the biggest improvements, where associate degrees often come with zero or minimal borrowing.
Voices from Colorado Campuses
Students on the ground feel the impact of these changes. At Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, freshmen shared mixed views on debt as they start their journeys.
One criminal justice major expressed optimism, calling it “good debt” that leads to strong career payoffs. Another undeclared student noted that affordable tuition at their school makes the future less daunting.
These personal stories reflect a broader sentiment. Many young people now plan their education with debt in mind, choosing majors that promise quick returns.
Across the state, surveys show that 70 percent of current students worry less about loans than previous generations did. This shift encourages more to pursue degrees without fear of overwhelming payments.
Counselors advise exploring options like work-study programs and grants to keep borrowing low.
Why This Matters for Colorado’s Economy
Lower debt levels boost economic mobility for graduates. With less financial pressure, they can buy homes, start families, and invest in communities sooner.
The report ties this to Colorado’s strong job market in fields like tech and healthcare, where starting salaries often cover loan payments easily.
State leaders see this as a win for attracting talent. By making college more affordable, Colorado competes better with neighboring states.
However, challenges remain. Some rural areas still face higher debt rates due to limited local options.
Overall, the trend supports long-term growth, with projections showing even lower debt by 2030 if funding continues.
Comparing to National Student Debt Trends
While Colorado improves, the national picture is tougher. Total U.S. student loan debt hit $1.8 trillion in 2025, with the average borrower owing about $39,000.
In contrast, Colorado’s average sits lower, thanks to state-specific efforts. Delinquency rates nationally spiked to 8 percent this year, but Colorado reports steadier repayment.
Factors like federal pauses on payments during past economic dips influenced trends, yet Colorado’s proactive steps stand out.
Experts note that states with similar investments, like those expanding free community college, see comparable drops in debt.
This positions Colorado as a model for others aiming to reduce the burden on young adults.
Looking Ahead: What Students Can Do
As trends evolve, future students have tools to minimize debt. Planning early, such as applying for state aid and choosing cost-effective schools, makes a difference.
Resources like the report offer insights for families weighing options.
Share your thoughts on student debt in the comments below, or pass this article along to someone considering college. Your input helps spark important conversations.
