VISIT FLORIDA highlights ‘record-breaking’ tourism numbers from 2022

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – VISIT FLORIDA calculated and highlighted the “record-breaking” tourism numbers that the state experienced in 2022.

“Whether for business or vacation, people continue to visit Florida and support Florida businesses because of our commitment to keeping the economy open and allowing businesses to thrive without arbitrary government restrictions,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said.

“Florida is the best state in the nation to bring your business and vacation with your families,” he said.

VISIT FLORIDA found that the 137.4 million tourists in 2022 spent $124.9 billion in the state, surpassing 2021’s numbers by close to $20 billion.

“Whether for work or play, Governor DeSantis’ freedom-first policies have allowed Florida’s tourism industries and all industries to flourish to record levels,” said Dana Young, president and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA.

“The impact of commerce and tourism on Florida’s economy cannot be overstated, and again Florida has proven that its charging faster than the national economic trends which have otherwise set back many other states,” she added.

Other numbers related to employment found that tourism-related work grew to two million jobs. Tourism was also responsible for 9.5% of all Florida jobs in 2022, making it the second largest employer.

Around $73 billion in wages were earned by tourism-related workers, while one out of every six private sector jobs were supported by tourism in various ways.

Finally, tourism in the state raised over $35 billion in taxes. VISIT FLORIDA calculated that without tourism, 8.8 million Florida households would each have to pay more than $1,840 in state and local taxes to maintain current revenue levels.