Why Tourism Matters

The tourism industry is a powerful engine, supporting the livelihoods of millions of Americans and driving economic growth across the nation. It's a sector where dedication, efficiency, and a welcoming spirit are paramount. These are the people who help others connect, creating unforgettable experiences and fueling the travel industry's continued success. These are the jobs and the people we should be celebrating.

National Travel and Tourism Week will once again recognize the immense power of travel and the industry’s crucial role in revitalizing our vibrant communities, strengthening the U.S. economy, rebuilding our workforce, and fostering connections across America. It arrives at an opportune moment to emphasize the importance of a thriving travel sector.

North Carolina Tourism: A Powerful Economic Driver 

North Carolina's tourism sector continued its record-breaking trajectory in 2024, solidifying its position as a top destination despite challenges like Hurricane Helene.

• Total Visitor Spending: Travelers spent more than $36.7 billion on trips to and within North Carolina in 2024, setting a new record and representing a 3.1% increase over 2023 expenditures.
• Daily Spending: Visitors spend more than $100 million per day in North Carolina.
• Tourism Payroll: Direct tourism payroll rose 2.6% to $9.5 billion in 2024.
• Tax Revenue: Visitor spending generated nearly $4.6 billion in federal, state, and local taxes in 2024, contributing approximately $7.3 million per day to state and local tax revenues.
• Tax Savings for Residents: As a direct result of visitor spending, each North Carolina household saved an average of $593 in state and local taxes in 2024.
• Visitor Volume: North Carolina hosted nearly 40 million visitors from across the United States in 2024, maintaining its rank as the 5th most visited state for domestic visitation.

Why Does Tourism Matter to the Lake Norman Area? *

• Every time a visitor spends money in our towns, they also pay taxes. Those tax dollars do not come from us, the residents, but contribute directly to our schools, help expand our roads, and provide services like police, fire, and rescue.
• For the 2024 fiscal year, Visit Lake Norman brought in an estimated $23,702,886 in economic impact.
• 1 in 9 employed people in Mecklenburg County work in the hospitality and leisure markets.