How Much Does Florida Make From Tourism?

By Michael Ferguson

Florida is a state that is renowned for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and world-class attractions. It’s no surprise that millions of tourists flock to the state every year.

But have you ever wondered how much money Florida makes from tourism? Let’s take a closer look.

Overview of Florida Tourism

Tourism is a significant contributor to Florida’s economy. In fact, it’s one of the state’s largest industries.

According to Visit Florida, the official tourism marketing corporation for the state, Florida welcomed a record-breaking 131 million visitors in 2019 alone. This was an increase of 4.1% from the previous year.

Total Tourism Spending

So, how much money did these visitors bring in? According to Visit Florida, tourists spent a whopping $91.3 billion in the state in 2018. This includes spending on accommodations, food and drink, transportation, entertainment, and more.

Tourism Employment

Tourism doesn’t just generate revenue for businesses; it also creates jobs for Floridians. In fact, according to Visit Florida, the tourism industry employs over 1.5 million people in the state. This accounts for over 14% of all jobs in Florida.

Top Tourist Destinations

Florida has no shortage of attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Here are just a few:

  • Walt Disney World Resort: This world-famous theme park attracts millions of visitors each year.
  • Universal Orlando Resort: Another popular theme park that features rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows.
  • Miami Beach: Known for its stunning beaches and nightlife scene.
  • The Everglades: A unique ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of wildlife.

The Future of Florida Tourism

While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry worldwide, Florida’s tourism industry is expected to rebound. According to Visit Florida, the state’s tourism marketing corporation, 2021 is expected to be a strong year for tourism in Florida.

Safety Measures

As the world adapts to living with COVID-19, many businesses in the tourism industry have implemented new safety measures to protect visitors and employees alike. This includes increased cleaning protocols, mandatory mask-wearing, and limiting capacity.

New Attractions

Florida is also continually evolving and adding new attractions. For example, Universal Orlando Resort recently opened a new rollercoaster based on the popular Jurassic World movies.

Conclusion

Tourism is a vital part of Florida’s economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue and providing millions of jobs. With its world-class attractions and beautiful weather, it’s no wonder that so many people choose to visit the Sunshine State every year. As the world continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s exciting to see how Florida’s tourism industry will adapt and continue to thrive in the future.