Florida is known as the “Sunshine State” and is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. The state attracts millions of visitors annually, and the tourism industry plays a significant role in its economy. In this article, we will explore just how much money Florida gets from tourism.
The Importance of Tourism in Florida
Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Florida. As per Visit Florida, the official tourism marketing corporation for the state, in 2019 alone, 131.4 million visitors came to Florida, contributing $91.3 billion to the state’s economy. These numbers make it clear that tourism is an essential driver of economic growth and job creation in Florida.
How Much Money Does Florida Make from Tourists?
The amount of money that tourists spend while visiting Florida varies each year. In 2019, visitors spent approximately $91.3 billion which was a record high for the state.
Where Does This Money Come From?
Tourists spend their money on various things while visiting Florida. Some of these include hotel accommodations, food and beverage purchases, shopping, entertainment activities, and transportation.
Impact on Employment
The tourism industry in Florida has a significant impact on employment across various sectors such as hospitality, retail, transportation and more. According to Visit Florida’s research data for 2019-20:
- The number of direct travel-related jobs in Florida was estimated to be over 1.5 million.
- The total number of jobs supported by travel was estimated at over 1.6 million.
- The total earnings generated by these jobs were estimated at $60 billion.
These numbers indicate just how important tourism is not only for generating revenue but also for creating employment opportunities across different sectors.
Conclusion
Tourism is a vital industry for Florida, and it contributes significantly to the state’s economy. The industry generates billions of dollars in revenue each year and creates numerous job opportunities for Floridians. With its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and various attractions, Florida will continue to attract visitors from all over the world and contribute to the growth of its tourism industry.