What Percentage of US Economy Is Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

According to the US Travel Association, the tourism industry is a significant contributor to the country’s economy. In fact, it is one of the largest industries in the US and supports millions of jobs.

But what exactly is the percentage of US economy that tourism makes up? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Tourism?

Tourism refers to travel for leisure, business, or any other purpose that involves staying away from home for at least 24 hours. It can include activities such as sightseeing, visiting friends and family, attending conferences or events, and much more.

The Importance of Tourism in the US

Tourism plays a vital role in the US economy by creating jobs, generating revenue, and supporting local businesses. The industry also helps showcase America’s diverse culture and attractions to visitors from all over the world.

Tourism’s Contribution to US Economy

So what percentage of US economy is tourism responsible for? According to recent data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), travel and tourism accounted for 7.8% of total GDP in 2019. This translates to around $1.8 trillion in economic output.

Furthermore, travel and tourism supported more than 11 million jobs in 2019 alone. This includes jobs directly related to the industry such as hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant workers as well as indirect jobs such as those in transportation and retail.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the tourism industry globally. In 2020, international travel to the US fell by 76% compared to the previous year due to restrictions on travel and health concerns.

Domestic travel has also been affected as many Americans have postponed or canceled their vacations due to safety concerns. This has resulted in job losses and revenue declines for many businesses in the industry.

Conclusion

Tourism is a crucial component of the US economy, contributing billions of dollars in revenue and supporting millions of jobs. While the industry has faced significant challenges due to the pandemic, there is hope that with effective vaccination programs and safety protocols, travel will gradually return to pre-pandemic levels.