January 22, 2026 – The local tourism industry’s economic impact surpassed $10 billion in 2025, according to Visit St. Pete-Clearwater. Nearly 15 million visitors also helped sustain approximately 100,000 jobs. Pinellas County commissioners approved over $153 million in tourist development tax funding, generated from a 6% surcharge on overnight stays, to invest in the largest beach nourishment initiative on record, six capital projects at area attractions and 40 Elite Events.
