Florida tourism generates record economic impact and tax savings for residents

Ron DeSantis, Governor at Florida
Ron DeSantis, Governor at Florida - NGA
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Tourism in Florida contributed $133.6 billion to the state’s economy in 2024, according to a new study by VISIT FLORIDA. The report shows that travel and tourism generated nearly $2,000 in annual tax savings for each of Florida’s more than nine million households.

Out-of-state visitors spent $134.9 billion in 2024, marking a 3% increase from the previous year. Of this amount, domestic travelers accounted for $120.1 billion, while international visitors spent $14.8 billion. The majority of these expenditures remained within the state, with 99 cents of every dollar spent staying in Florida.

The tourism industry supported 1.8 million jobs and produced $79.9 billion in wages during the year. Tax revenue from tourism reached $33.6 billion at the federal, state, and local levels.

Governor Ron DeSantis commented on the findings: “Our tourism industry is critical to Florida’s strong economic position. Florida remains the top destination for travelers from across the country and the world because we prioritize freedom and safety. Tourism fuels jobs and keeps Florida’s economy strong.”

Bryan Griffin, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, added: “Tourism drives Florida’s economy. This new data from VISIT FLORIDA’s economic impact study demonstrates the value of Florida’s investment in tourism and tourism marketing. Florida’s 9.1 million households are saving nearly $2,000 a year because of the tax revenues generated by Florida tourism. VISIT FLORIDA will continue to responsibly steward this valuable investment for Florida’s residents.”

The sector represented 7.8% of Florida’s nominal Gross State Product (GSP) last year. The report notes that without revenue from tourism activity, each household would need to pay an additional $1,730 annually in state and local taxes to maintain current funding levels.

Tourism-related employment increased by 1.8%, reaching 1.8 million jobs statewide in 2024. Wages supported by tourism grew by 4.6% compared to 2023.

Further details can be found through Governor Ron DeSantis’ newsroom.



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