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Student Loan Debt Hits $1.66 Trillion: Maryland Tops List

3/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

As of 2025, unpaid U.S. student loan debt exceeds $1.66 trillion, affecting 12.55% of adults with an average balance of $37,000.
Maryland has the highest average debt at over $45,000, followed by Georgia and Virginia.
Despite the overall rise, average balances dropped in 47 states, signaling progress in repayment.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, effective July 2026, will restructure federal borrowing and could push borrowers toward private loans.

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Story summary

As of 2025, unpaid U.S. student loan debt exceeds $1.66 trillion, affecting 12.55% of adults with an average balance of $37,000.
Maryland has the highest average debt at over $45,000, followed by Georgia and Virginia.
Despite the overall rise, average balances dropped in 47 states, signaling progress in repayment.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, effective July 2026, will restructure federal borrowing and could push borrowers toward private loans.