Newly-released U.S. Census data shows the percent of college-educated Floridians is up for the sixth year in a row, with 39.9% of working-age adults holding an associate’s degree or higher.

This increase translates to approximately 182,000 more Floridians ages 25-64 with an associate’s degree or higher as of 2015.  Over the past five years, Florida has increased its share of college-educated adults by 3.7%, the fifth highest improvement in the nation.

Although Florida’s growing share of college-educated adults is a sign of progress, the state still lags the national average (40.9%) and ranks 29th of all states.

“Florida’s steady progress in recent years is good news, but we still have room for improvement,” said Florida CAN executive director Laurie Meggesin.  “Labor economists predict over 60% of all jobs in Florida will soon require some form of postsecondary education, so we need to ensure our students have the credentials they need to fill those jobs.”

In addition to the Floridians who hold a college degree, a recent report from Lumina Foundation estimates an additional 7% hold a postsecondary certificate.  This is an encouraging finding, as many of Florida’s fastest growing occupations require such credentials.

To view degree attainment rates for Florida and all other states since 2009, view this table prepared by Florida CAN.

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