Home » America Travel News » California Joins Florida, Nevada, Hawaii, Texas and New York Are Dominating US Tourism, Boosting Economy, Latest Report Shows More
Published on
September 20, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
In 2024, California joins Florida, Nevada, Hawaii, Texas, and New York in dominating U.S. tourism, driving the economy to new heights. These states are not only popular tourist destinations, but they are also key economic engines that generate billions in revenue.
As visitors flock to California’s iconic attractions, Florida’s sunny beaches, Nevada’s vibrant casinos, Hawaii’s stunning islands, Texas’ diverse cities, and New York’s world-renowned landmarks, these states are seeing a massive boost in their local economies.
US Tourism fuels local businesses, creates jobs, and supports countless industries, from hospitality to transportation. By harnessing the power of tourism, these states are setting the stage for even greater growth in the coming years. The combined tourism success of California, Florida, Nevada, Hawaii, Texas, and New York highlights the incredible potential of these regions as major economic powerhouses.
The Growth of US State Economies and the Power of Tourism in 2024
The United States is home to some of the most powerful and diverse economies in the world. Each state contributes to the country’s overall economic performance in unique ways. Among these, tourism has become a key driver, boosting local economies, creating jobs, and generating revenue. This article dives into the most current economic statistics of U.S. states and explores the tourism industry’s impact across the country in 2024.
Economic Power of U.S. States
The economy of the United States, which reached an impressive $29.18 trillion in 2024, is built on the strength of each state’s economy. The largest contributors to this total are California, Texas, and New York. These states are crucial to the overall financial health of the U.S. economy, and their economic influence extends far beyond their borders.
California: The Golden State’s Economic Dominance
California is the top contributor to the U.S. economy, with a gross state product (GSP) of around $4.1 trillion in 2024. This makes it not only the largest state economy in the U.S. but also the world’s fourth-largest economy overall, surpassing countries like Japan. The Golden State’s economy is diverse, with strong industries in technology, entertainment, agriculture, and tourism.
California’s economy has been a driving force for the U.S., contributing significantly to GDP growth. Despite facing challenges such as housing shortages and homelessness, California’s tourism industry is booming. In 2024, the state saw record tourism numbers, with millions visiting its famous destinations, from the beaches of Los Angeles to the iconic landmarks of San Francisco.
Texas: A Powerhouse in the Heart of America
Texas, with a GSP of $2.7 trillion, is the second-largest economy in the U.S. The state is known for its oil, energy, and technology sectors, which contribute heavily to its economic success. Houston, Texas, in particular, has become a hub for international business and tourism.
In 2024, Houston saw a record number of visitors, with over 53 million tourists spending more than $11 billion. The city’s economic impact from tourism has continued to grow, contributing to a significant rise in local revenue and creating numerous jobs for residents. Texas’ strong economy and thriving tourism sector have made it an essential part of the nation’s overall growth.
New York: The Empire State’s Financial Power
New York, another giant in the U.S. economy, has a GSP of around $2.3 trillion in 2024. As one of the world’s leading financial hubs, New York City drives much of this economic strength. The state’s economy is also supported by key sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and tourism.
Tourism plays a massive role in New York’s economy. In 2024, New York City attracted 64.3 million visitors, generating over $51 billion in tourism spending. This level of tourist activity has a far-reaching impact, creating jobs, boosting local businesses, and increasing the city’s tax revenues. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park, continue to draw visitors from around the globe.
The U.S. Tourism Industry: A Key Economic Driver
The tourism industry in the United States is not just important for individual states; it’s a vital part of the nation’s overall economy. In 2024, the U.S. tourism industry experienced significant growth. The number of international visitors to the U.S. reached 72.39 million, representing a 9.1% increase from the previous year. This growth shows the world’s increasing desire to visit the U.S., despite challenges faced by the travel sector in recent years.
The Economic Impact of Tourism in the U.S.
Tourism in the United States is not just about sightseeing; it has a powerful economic impact. International visitors spent approximately $253.9 billion on travel-related goods and services in 2024. This spending supports a wide range of industries, including hospitality, transportation, entertainment, and retail.
In fact, the U.S. travel and tourism industry contributed 3.03% to the nation’s GDP in 2023. This significant contribution helps sustain the economy, particularly in cities and regions that rely heavily on tourism for revenue. As tourism continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, experts predict that its economic role will only grow in the coming years.
Employment in the Tourism Sector
Tourism also plays a critical role in creating jobs across the U.S. In 2022, the industry supported nearly 9.5 million jobs, with 6.6 million direct jobs and 2.8 million indirect jobs. These jobs span a wide variety of sectors, from hotel staff to tour guides to restaurant workers, and they support both large cities and smaller communities alike.
The importance of tourism-related employment cannot be overstated. As more tourists visit the U.S., demand for services grows, which leads to job creation and economic stability for many regions. Whether it’s a major city like New York or a smaller town in the Midwest, tourism-related jobs provide livelihoods to millions of Americans.
State-Level Tourism Insights
While the national tourism numbers are impressive, some states stand out for their exceptional tourism growth and contributions to the overall economy. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights from key U.S. states.
California’s Tourism Boom
California’s tourism industry is booming. With its world-famous attractions, including Disneyland, the beaches of Southern California, and the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park, California continues to draw millions of visitors each year. In 2024, the state saw record-breaking tourism numbers, further bolstering its position as an economic powerhouse.
The tourism industry in California not only generates substantial revenue but also provides employment opportunities for thousands of people. From hotel workers to tour operators, the tourism sector plays a major role in the state’s economy.
Houston, Texas: A Record-Breaking Year
Houston, Texas, is another city that saw a surge in tourism in 2024. The city set new tourism records, with over 53 million visitors, and generated $11 billion in visitor spending. The economic impact of tourism in Houston is immense, helping to support local businesses and creating thousands of jobs.
As the city continues to grow and develop, its tourism sector is expected to remain a key driver of economic activity. Houston’s museums, space center, and vibrant cultural scene make it an attractive destination for tourists from around the world.
New York City’s Resilient Tourism Sector
New York City, often considered the tourism capital of the world, is seeing a robust recovery after the pandemic. In 2024, the city welcomed 64.3 million visitors, who spent over $51 billion. This spending helped the city recover from pandemic-related losses and boost its economy.
Tourism in New York City supports a variety of industries, from hotels and restaurants to theaters and shops. The city’s iconic attractions, such as Broadway, the Empire State Building, and Central Park, continue to be major draws for visitors. As tourism continues to grow, New York City’s economy benefits from the influx of tourists and their spending.
Cleveland, Ohio: A Growing Tourism Hub
Cleveland, Ohio, is an emerging tourism destination. In 2024, the city reported a 4% increase in tourism spending, reaching $6.9 billion. This growth reflects the city’s increasing appeal as a cultural and entertainment hub. Cleveland’s museums, sports teams, and vibrant arts scene attract visitors from across the U.S. and around the world.
Tourism in Cleveland is creating new jobs and helping to drive the local economy. As more visitors come to enjoy the city’s attractions, the economic impact of tourism continues to rise, supporting businesses and residents alike.
The Future of U.S. State Economies and Tourism
The U.S. economy in 2024 shows a clear trend: strong growth in key sectors like technology, energy, and finance, supported by a booming tourism industry. States like California, Texas, and New York continue to lead the charge, but other states are also showing impressive growth.
Tourism, in particular, is poised for continued growth. As travel demand increases, more jobs will be created, and states will see an influx of visitor spending, further boosting local economies. The recovery of tourism after the pandemic is a clear sign that this industry remains a vital part of the U.S. economy.
In conclusion, the U.S. economy is strong and growing, driven by key states that contribute to national GDP. Tourism plays a significant role in this growth, supporting businesses, creating jobs, and boosting local and national economies. As more people visit the U.S. and explore its diverse offerings, the economic impact of tourism will continue to be felt in every state across the country.
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural history. Each state contributes to the nation’s economy in its own unique way. A major part of this economic power comes from tourism. In 2024, tourism has continued to grow across the country, making it a significant contributor to the economy. This article will explore the tourism economies of various U.S. states, highlighting their economic impact, key attractions, and how they support local jobs and businesses.
California: The Golden State’s Tourism Boom
California is the largest economy in the U.S. in 2024, with a gross state product (GSP) of around $4.1 trillion. This state alone makes up a large portion of the nation’s economic output. A major contributor to California’s economy is tourism. With world-famous attractions like Disneyland, Yosemite National Park, and the beaches of Los Angeles, it draws millions of visitors every year.
In 2024, California saw a record-breaking number of tourists, boosting the state’s economy further. Tourism spending has reached over $157.3 billion, providing jobs and support for local businesses. From restaurants to hotels and local stores, tourism helps generate income across various sectors. The state’s diverse offerings in terms of natural beauty, entertainment, and cultural landmarks continue to make it a top destination.
Florida: Sunshine State with a Tourist Paradise
Florida is another giant in the U.S. economy, with its tourism industry playing a key role. Known for its beautiful beaches, theme parks like Walt Disney World, and vibrant cities like Miami, Florida attracts millions of tourists each year. In 2024, Florida’s tourism spending exceeded $100 billion, making it one of the most visited states in the U.S.
The tourism economy in Florida supports jobs in hospitality, entertainment, transportation, and retail. The state’s tourism also drives the economy in smaller towns and rural areas, where visitors spend money on local businesses. Whether it’s a family vacation to the theme parks or a relaxing holiday on the beach, Florida’s tourism industry is a vital part of its economic success.
New York: The Empire State’s Economic Power
New York, particularly New York City, is one of the world’s top travel destinations. The state’s tourism industry has a massive economic impact, generating over $70 billion in tourism spending in 2024. The attractions in New York City, such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, draw millions of visitors every year. In fact, New York City welcomed more than 64 million visitors in 2024 alone.
Tourism in New York also contributes to the state’s economy through various industries, including entertainment, transportation, and retail. The city’s Broadway shows, restaurants, and cultural institutions provide jobs to thousands of people. The significant increase in tourism spending has helped New York recover from the challenges faced during the pandemic, and its tourism sector continues to grow.
Nevada: The Entertainment Hub
Nevada’s economy is heavily reliant on its tourism sector, especially the entertainment and casino industries. Las Vegas, the state’s largest city, is a global entertainment hub known for its vibrant nightlife, world-class hotels, and gaming. Nevada saw over $60 billion in tourism spending in 2024, highlighting its strong position as a tourist magnet.
Tourism in Nevada supports a wide range of jobs, from hotel staff and casino workers to entertainers and service providers. The state’s tourism industry has also helped drive its economy by attracting visitors for conventions, events, and shows. As tourism grows, Nevada’s economy benefits from increased spending, job creation, and overall growth.
Hawaii: Paradise Island for Tourists
Hawaii is a unique state that has a tourism industry deeply tied to its natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its stunning beaches, volcanoes, and lush landscapes, Hawaii is a dream destination for tourists from all over the world. In 2024, Hawaii’s tourism industry generated about $17 billion in revenue, which is crucial to the state’s economy.
Tourism in Hawaii supports jobs in hospitality, retail, and transportation. The state’s tourism sector also boosts local businesses, as tourists spend money on food, souvenirs, and local experiences. Whether it’s hiking in the volcanic parks, relaxing on pristine beaches, or exploring the rich history of the islands, Hawaii continues to attract millions of visitors each year.
Texas: A Rising Star in the Tourism World
Texas, with a GSP of around $2.7 trillion in 2024, is one of the largest economies in the U.S. Its tourism industry plays a significant role in its economic success. Houston, the largest city in Texas, set tourism records in 2024, attracting over 53 million visitors and generating over $11 billion in tourism spending. Texas offers a diverse range of attractions, from the Space Center in Houston to the Alamo in San Antonio, and the music scene in Austin.
Tourism in Texas supports millions of jobs in various sectors, including hospitality, food services, and entertainment. As the state continues to grow, its tourism industry is expected to remain a key contributor to the economy. The rise in visitor numbers to cities like Houston and San Antonio highlights the increasing importance of tourism in Texas’ economic development.
Arizona: Natural Wonders and Rich History
Arizona is famous for its natural wonders, including the Grand Canyon, which is one of the most visited national parks in the world. In 2024, Arizona’s tourism industry generated $157.3 billion in tourism spending, benefiting the state’s economy. The state’s national parks, deserts, and mountains offer a unique experience for visitors.
Tourism in Arizona supports a wide range of businesses, including tour guides, hotels, and restaurants. The state’s rich cultural heritage, including Native American history and Spanish missions, also draws visitors seeking a deeper connection to the past. Arizona’s tourism industry continues to grow, making it an important economic driver.
Illinois: A Hub of Culture and Business
Illinois is home to Chicago, one of the largest cities in the U.S., and a major tourist destination. Chicago’s stunning skyline, museums, and restaurants attract millions of visitors each year. In 2024, Illinois’ tourism spending reached over $40 billion, thanks to the city’s many attractions, including Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and Navy Pier.
Tourism in Illinois supports a wide array of industries, from hospitality and transportation to retail and entertainment. Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene plays a key role in driving tourism and sustaining the local economy. As more people visit the city for both business and leisure, Illinois continues to benefit from its robust tourism sector.
Georgia: Southern Charm and Hospitality
Georgia is known for its southern hospitality, and its tourism industry is one of the fastest-growing in the U.S. In 2024, Georgia’s tourism sector generated around $32 billion in revenue. Atlanta, the state’s largest city, is home to major attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Tourism in Georgia helps create jobs in hospitality, transportation, and retail. The state’s natural beauty, including the Blue Ridge Mountains and the coastal area around Savannah, also draws visitors. Georgia’s tourism economy supports local communities by bringing in revenue and boosting local businesses.
The Economic Impact of Tourism Across the U.S.
Tourism is a major contributor to the U.S. economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue and supporting millions of jobs. In 2024, the U.S. tourism industry as a whole saw more than 72 million international visitors, who spent a total of $253.9 billion. This spending not only supports tourism-related businesses but also has a positive impact on other sectors, including retail, construction, and manufacturing.
Tourism creates a significant number of jobs, particularly in areas with high numbers of visitors. It provides employment in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, food services, and entertainment. The jobs created by tourism are not limited to large cities but also extend to smaller towns and rural areas, where tourists spend money on local services and products.
