Canceling student debt is contentious. Opponents argue that relief would benefit elite, wealthier families. Supporters counter that student loan debt impacts millions of people across income ranges. This animated map reveals the reach of student loan debt and where the burden is highest.
The map from Esri explores student loan debt in two ways. You can see which states have the highest average student loan debt. The map also shows the share of people in each state with student loan debt.
Viewing student loan debt this way shows that it’s not a regional issue. In fact, the states that rank in the top 3 for each measure might surprise you.
This is the true power of maps—to help us see things in new ways. To find patterns. To understand something from a different angle.
This map won’t end the debate about canceling student loan debt. But it does provide important context about the potential impacts of such a policy.
By the Numbers
Combined total student debt in the US.
Average student loan debt in the US.
Percentage of Americans with student loan debt.
