Franciscan University of Steubenville Enrollment Surges — A Boost for Downtown Opportunity
Downtown Steubenville is in the midst of a vibrant moment, thanks in no small part to the impressive growth at Franciscan University of Steubenville (FUS). This fall, the university welcomed its largest incoming class in 11 consecutive years — a record 1,227 new students including freshmen, transfers and graduate students. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Overall enrollment is projected at more than 4,250 students for Fall 2025. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Why is this growth so meaningful for downtown businesses?
More students means more new residents, and more spending power: they’ll dine, shop, socialize and live in and around downtown, supporting cafés, restaurants, boutiques and service-businesses.
These students love downtown: the walkable streets, local culture, convenient amenities and the vibrant Fourth Street corridor make downtown a natural hangout and daily part of campus life.
For the Downtown Steubenville Business Association, this is a clear signal of opportunity — new foot traffic, new customers and a growing reason to position downtown as the hub for student-friendly entertainment, housing and services.
As FUS continues to grow, downtown Steubenville doesn’t just benefit — it becomes a collaborator in that growth. For existing downtown businesses and for new ventures alike, this is an ideal time to lean in, adapt to student patterns, and capitalize on a rising tide of activity in our city’s heart.
