Columbia County Observer

Florida Shatters Tourism Records in 2023 – Remains the World's Premier Travel Destination

December 11, 2024  5:25 pm | 2 min read

Image: via Visit Florida| Columbia County Observer graphic

By Stew Lilker | Information for this article is via the Gov's. Office

TALLAHASSEE, FL – Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis announced record-breaking visitation numbers in 2023. Tourists coming to Florida spent a record $131 billion in the state. This is an increase of 5% over 2022, resulting in $36.9 billion in local, state, and federal tax revenue. Florida posted the highest visitation numbers in state history.

“Florida can’t be beat,” said Governor DeSantis. “I’m proud of this new record set for the state. Everyone loves the Free State of Florida.”

Dana Young, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, said, “The numbers speak for themselves. Florida’s tourism industry is unmatched. Our state has surpassed expectations. These incredible achievements reflect the dedication of our tourism partners and the unwavering appeal of Florida as the top destination in the world.”

Highlights from 2023 Economic & Fiscal Impact of Tourism in Florida:

Florida's tourism industry generated $127.7 billion in economic impact in 2023, a 5% increase over 2022.

Domestic visitors to Florida spent $116.1 billion, while international visitors contributed $14.9 billion, providing a $131 billion out-of-state spending stimulus to Florida’s economy.

For every dollar spent by a visitor, the Florida economy retained 97 cents, with 58 cents supporting worker salaries and 13 cents collected as state and local taxes.

Tourism contributed $36.9 billion in local, state, and federal taxes last year.

Visitors spent an average of $359 million per day in Florida.

 Tourism was responsible for 9.5% of jobs in Florida, with the industry supporting 2.1 million jobs and providing $76.4 billion in wages and salaries to workers across the state.

In 2023, tourism supported around one in every seven private sector jobs.

Tourism activity resulted in $1,910 in tax savings per household in Florida.

County and regional visitor spending and impact were not available at publication.

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