New research shows that Sacramento would be the second largest market and economy in the Pac-12

SACRAMENTO – The Sac 12 Executive Committee has announced new research showing the value of Sacramento’s media market and economy as an asset as part of their push to join the Pac-12.

The study underscores Sacramento’s potential to significantly expand the Pac-12’s footprint, highlighting its future position as the second-largest designated market area and second-largest economy among conference markets.

The report shows that the Sacramento market would trail only Denver and boast a median household income of $92,000. In terms of economic strength, Sacramento’s real GDP was $98.9 billion in 2022, surpassing Fresno by 118%. The city has also experienced the highest population growth of any Pac-12 city since 2020.

“The findings of this study, along with our increased fundraising goals, demonstrate that Sacramento State is ready for Pac-12 membership,” said Josh Wood, co-chairman of Sac 12.

The Sac 12 Committee also announced a new goal for the Name, Image and Likeness funds, after surpassing the initial goal of $50 million by $7 million in six weeks thanks to 20 donors with ties to Sacramento State or the Sacramento region. Now, the group has set its sights on raising $75 million in NIL funds.

The hope, according to Wood, is the support given to it Sacramento State athletes translates to the fundraising goals of the university’s football stadium.