HOW MUCH OF US Economy Is Tourism?

By Michael Ferguson

Tourism is an important sector that contributes to the economy of any country. It provides employment opportunities, generates revenue, and promotes cultural exchange. In the United States, tourism is a significant contributor to the economy.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, travel and tourism generated $2.6 trillion in economic output in 2019. This accounts for 10.3% of the country’s GDP (gross domestic product). The industry also provided employment to 15.8 million people in 2019, which is approximately 11% of total employment in the country.

The tourism industry encompasses a wide range of activities such as transportation, accommodation, food and beverage services, recreation and entertainment, and travel services. These activities provide direct and indirect employment opportunities to millions of people across various sectors.

The United States is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international travelers. In 2019, domestic travelers accounted for 86% of all trips taken in the country while international travelers accounted for 14%. The top five international markets for inbound tourism to the United States are Canada, Mexico, China, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

Tourism also has a significant impact on state economies. In some states like Hawaii and Nevada, tourism is the primary contributor to their economy. In Hawaii alone, tourism generated $17 billion in visitor spending in 2019.

In conclusion, tourism plays a crucial role in the U.S economy as it contributes significantly to GDP and job creation. The industry provides opportunities for various sectors such as transportation, accommodation, recreation and entertainment among others. With its diverse offerings from beaches to mountains and cities rich with history or culture there is always something new to discover in America making it an attractive destination globally.