San Antonio sees largest increase in college grads in U.S.

San Antonio is raking in the brainpower by having the largest increase of college graduates in the country, according to demographer Wendell Cox. The Alamo City saw more than 20 percent increase of individuals with bachelor degrees from 2007 – 2012, making it the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the country, tied with New Orleans, according to the data. less San Antonio is raking in the brainpower by having the largest increase of college graduates in the country, according to demographer Wendell Cox. The Alamo City saw more than 20 percent increase of ... more Photo: 2010 AFP Photo: 2010 AFP Image 1 of / 15 Caption Close San Antonio sees largest increase in college grads in U.S. 1 / 15 Back to Gallery

SAN ANTONIO — Queue “City On the Rise” comments from city leaders.

San Antonio is raking in the brainpower by having the largest increase of college graduates in the country, according to demographer Wendell Cox.

The Alamo City saw more than a 20 percent increase of individuals with bachelor degrees from 2007 to 2012, making it the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the country, tied with New Orleans, according to the data.

The number of college graduates in San Antonio during those six years increased by 76,313.

Forbes magazine took a stab at why the trend is happening.

“The San Antonio area has traditionally lagged behind in attracting educated people; nearly one resident in six does not have a high school diploma,” Forbes wrote. “But the old Texas town also has many amenities that appeal to educated workers, notably great food and a good nightlife scene. In addition, it boasts one of the fastest-growing regional economies in the country, with expanding tech and energy businesses, something that may have a particular appeal in this still weak recovery.”

Other Texas cities in the top 10 include Austin in third and sixth-ranked Houston, both of which are home to some of the largest universities in the state.

Austin had an increase of 19.9 percent, or 95,000, and Houston had a 16 percent increase of college grads, or 185,000, in those years.

kparker@express-news.net