Is Tourism Florida’s Largest Industry?

By Michael Ferguson

Florida is a state known for its beaches, theme parks, and warm weather. It’s no surprise that tourism is a significant part of the state’s economy.

But is it the largest industry in Florida? Let’s take a closer look.

Understanding Florida’s Economy

Before we dive into whether tourism is the largest industry in Florida, it’s essential to understand the state’s economy. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Florida had a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $1.11 trillion in 2019, making it the fourth-largest economy in the United States.

The Role of Tourism in Florida

Tourism plays an important role in Florida’s economy. The state welcomed over 131 million visitors in 2019 alone, generating $91.3 billion in revenue. The tourism industry provides jobs for over 1.5 million Floridians and accounts for around 12% of total employment in the state.

What Other Industries are Essential to Florida?

While tourism is vital to Florida’s economy, it may not be the largest industry in the state. According to data from Enterprise Florida, some other significant industries include:

  • Aerospace and Aviation
  • Agriculture and Food Production
  • Clean Energy
  • Financial and Professional Services
  • Life Sciences
  • Logistics and Distribution
  • Manufacturing

The Largest Industry in Florida?

So what is the largest industry in Florida? It depends on how you measure it. According to data from Enterprise Florida, aerospace and aviation account for around 10% of GDP and employ over 150,000 Floridians.

Another significant player is agriculture and food production, which accounts for around 2% of GDP and employs over 2 million people in the state.

Conclusion

While tourism is a crucial part of Florida’s economy, it may not be the largest industry in the state. Other sectors such as aerospace and aviation and agriculture and food production also play a significant role. It’s essential to understand the complexity of Florida’s economy and the different industries that contribute to its success.