New study shows Sacramento would be second largest market, economy in Pac-12

SACRAMENTO — The Sac 12 Executive Committee announced new research showing the value of Sacramento’s media market and economy as a benefit as part of their efforts to join the Pac-12.

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

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

“The results of this survey, along with our increased fundraising goals, demonstrate that Sacramento State is ready for Pac-12 membership,” said Sac 12 Co-Chairman Josh Wood.

The Sac 12 Committee also announced a new goal for name, image and likeness funds after surpassing the initial $50 million goal by $7 million in six weeks due 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.

Hope, according to Wood, is the support that is given to Sacramento State athletes translates into the university’s football stadium fundraising goals.