Georgia’s tourism industry hit record numbers in 2018, generating over $66.2 billion in business sales.
That’s up 4.7 percent, according to the U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Economics. Georgia Tourism, a division of The Georgia Department of Economic Development, made the announcement Monday as nationally hundreds of cities, states, and travel-related businesses began celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW).
“The tourism industry is a leading contributor to Georgia’s economic growth and prosperity,” said Gov. Brian Kemp. “Not only does our state welcome a record number of visitors each year, but travel and tourism creates jobs for 471,000 Georgians. The industry’s continued growth reaffirms that travel matters to every community in Georgia and makes our state a great place to live, work and do business.”
According to the U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Economics, Georgia’s total tourism demand has risen 46 percent higher than the pre-recession level in 2008. In 2018, travel and tourism generated more than $3.4 billion in tax revenue in Georgia.
According to state officials that means a big tax savings for Georgia residents. Reports indicate every household in the state would need to be taxed an additional $910 per year to replace the tourism taxes received as a result of the industry’s tax contribution.
“Georgia has quickly become a top travel destination in the world, and was even named one of the ‘50 Best Places to Travel in 2019’ by Travel + Leisure,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “The economic growth and accolades that Georgia has seen would not be possible without the hardworking tourism industry professionals across the state who strive to provide the best travel experiences for our guests through new and improved attractions, innovative marketing and our tried-and-true Southern hospitality.”
The annual weeklong celebration unites communities across the country to highlight what travel means to American jobs, economic growth and personal well-being. Georgia Tourism is engaging in a National Tourism Week promotion at each of the state’s 11 Visitor Information Centers (VICs).
