NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee’s tourism industry generated a record $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending, with 144 million visitors coming to the state in 2023, according to newly released data from Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Tourism Development Agency. Direct visitor spending in Tennessee increased 6.2% in 2023.
This was followed by two consecutive years of double-digit growth, with Tennessee rebounding 125% from pre-pandemic 2019 levels.
“When tourism grows, Tennessee benefits from increased sales tax revenue,” said Governor Bill Lee. “Tourism boosts local economies, supports businesses and jobs, funds public services and improves the quality of life for all Tennesseans. From Mountain City to Memphis, we welcome visitors from around the world to experience Tennessee’s music, beautiful outdoor scenery, culture and food.”
“Tourism in Tennessee is booming, benefiting Tennesseans,” said Tennessee Tourism Development Commissioner Mark Ezell. “This incredible achievement is a credit to our tourism marketing organizations and leisure and hospitality businesses across the state. This record growth is a testament to the strength, resilience, determination and hard work of Tennesseans, and the efforts of our industry to ensure visitors enjoy Tennessee’s Sound Perfect.”
Key highlights from the Travel Economic Impact 2023 report:
Tennessee Tourism generated $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending in 2023, a 25% increase over two years Tennessee visitors spent $84 million per day in 2023 Tax Benefits for Tennesseans Visitor spending generated $3.2 billion in direct state and local tax revenue in 2023. Without tourism, each Tennessee household would have to pay an additional $1,160 in taxes each year Tennessee collected $1.9 billion in tax revenue City and county governments collected $1.25 billion in tax revenue Average tax rates on direct visitor spending reduce the burden on local residents to fund infrastructure, education, health and safety services Visitor spending sustains 191,522 direct jobs, accounting for 1 in 24 jobs in the state Jobs supported by visitor activity grew 3% in 2023 and recovered to 98% of pre-pandemic levels Domestic visitor spending recovered 81.6% to pre-pandemic (2019) levels, and Tennessee’s visitor numbers will exceed 144 million in 2023, 3 million more than in 2022. This is due to the relatively strong growth in day visitor numbers.
*Study conducted by Tourism Economics on behalf of the Tennessee Department of Tourism Development
The Tennessee Tourism Development Department (TDTD) plans to release a full economic impact report on travel for 2023 and direct visitor spending data for all 95 counties in August 2024. TDTD has developed a strong relationship with the Tennessee Department of Revenue to ensure the economic impact figures are aligned with the reality of tax collection data.
The Tennessee Tourism Development Agency works with the Tennessee Tourism Commission, local convention and tourism bureaus, chambers of commerce, city and county leaders, tourism facilities and the hospitality industry in all 95 counties to promote travel to the state.
About Tennessee Tourism Development
The Tennessee Tourism Development Board (TDTD) works to promote economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, leading to increased tax revenue, job creation and new investment across the state.
Tennessee is a popular global travel destination offering visitors a wide range of experiences, from world-class music and live entertainment, to family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and traditional cuisine, renowned beautiful scenery, and outdoor adventures, all centered around the crossroads of rich history and unparalleled hospitality. So a Tennessee vacation sounds “perfect.”
For more travel inspiration, visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on social media.
