How Much of US GDP Is Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Tourism is a significant contributor to the economy of the United States. It has been an essential part of the country’s economic growth and development for many years. The tourism industry encompasses a wide range of activities, including transportation, lodging, food and beverage services, recreation and entertainment, and travel agencies.

The Importance of Tourism in the US

Tourism is one of the most critical industries in the United States. It contributes significantly to the country’s GDP, job creation, and tax revenue. According to the US Travel Association, the travel industry generated $2.6 trillion in economic output in 2019 alone.

How Much of US GDP Is Tourism?

Tourism is a significant contributor to the US economy. In 2019, it accounted for 7.8% of the country’s GDP or $1.6 trillion dollars. This figure includes both domestic and international tourism expenditures.

  • Domestic Tourism: Domestic tourism refers to travel within the United States by its residents. In 2019, domestic tourism spending was $972 billion.
  • International Tourism: International tourism refers to travel by non-residents to the United States. In 2019, international tourism spending was $155 billion.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the tourism industry worldwide, including in the United States. The US Travel Association estimates that travel spending fell by $500 billion in 2020 alone due to pandemic-related restrictions on travel.

The pandemic has led to a massive decline in both domestic and international tourism as people stay home to curb its spread. The impact has been felt across all sectors of the industry from airlines and hotels to restaurants and attractions.

Conclusion

Tourism is an essential contributor to economic growth and development in the United States. It accounts for a significant percentage of the country’s GDP and provides numerous job opportunities. The pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry, but with the vaccine rollout, we can hope to see a gradual recovery in the coming years.