Utah has been a popular tourist destination for decades, attracting millions of visitors every year. The state boasts of stunning natural beauty, ranging from the red rock formations of Moab to the snow-capped peaks of the Wasatch Mountains.
With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that tourism is a significant contributor to Utah’s economy. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at just how much money tourism makes in Utah.
Overview of Utah Tourism Industry
According to data from the Utah Office of Tourism, the state welcomed nearly 10 million visitors in 2019 alone. This number has been steadily increasing over the years, with a record-breaking 32 million visitors since 2013.
Direct Spending by Tourists
The direct spending by tourists in Utah was estimated at $9.75 billion in 2019. This includes expenses such as lodging, food and beverage, transportation, recreation and entertainment activities. This spending supports over 141,000 jobs in the state and generates $1.28 billion in tax revenue.
Indirect Spending
Indirect spending refers to money spent by businesses that supply goods and services to tourists directly or indirectly. This includes suppliers of food and beverages and other services required by hotels and restaurants. The indirect spending generated by tourism in Utah was estimated at $4.5 billion in 2019.
Total Economic Impact
The total economic impact of tourism in Utah was estimated at $14.2 billion in 2019. This includes both direct and indirect spending as well as induced effects such as additional wages paid to workers who benefit from tourist dollars being spent within their communities.
Top Tourist Attractions in Utah
Utah’s national parks are among its top attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to hike its trails and marvel at its stunning landscapes. The top national parks in Utah by visitor count in 2019 were:
- Arches National Park – 1.7 million visitors
- Zion National Park – 4.5 million visitors
- Bryce Canyon National Park – 2.6 million visitors
- Canyonlands National Park – 733,996 visitors
Conclusion
Tourism is a vital contributor to Utah’s economy, generating billions of dollars in spending each year and supporting thousands of jobs. With its breathtaking natural beauty and world-class attractions, it’s no surprise that Utah continues to attract millions of tourists annually.