New York's Tourism Industry Generated New Records for Visitation, Economic Impact and Direct Spending in 2017

Aug 1, 2018

NEW YORK - July 30, 2018 - New York State's tourism industry generated new records for total visitation, economic impact and direct spending in 2017. Supported by the governor's unprecedented investments in tourism statewide, New York State welcomed a record-high 243.8 million visitors who generated an economic impact of $108.7 billion - exceeding $100 billion for the fourth straight year. In addition, direct visitor spending reached an all-time high of $67.6 billion. These figures each represent a more than four percent increase over 2016.

Visitation: 243.8 million
New York State welcomed 243.8 million visitors in 2017, nearly 5 million more than the previous year. This represents a nearly 18 percent increase since the Governor took office in 2011.
Economic Impact: $108.7 billion
The total economic impact of tourism statewide reached a record $108.7 billion, exceeding $100 billion for the fourth straight year - an increase of nearly $22 billion from 2011.
Direct Spending: $67.6 billion
Visitors to New York State in 2017 generated $67.6 billion in direct spending, nearly $3 billion more than 2016, and almost $14 billion more than in 2011.
State and Local Taxes: $8.5 billion
New York State tourism generated $8.5 billion in state and local taxes in 2017, a more than 3.6 percent increase over 2016, saving each household an average of $1,172 in taxes.
Employment: 938,800 jobs
Tourism is now the third largest private sector employer in the state, supporting 938,800 jobs last year, according to the New York State Department of Labor.

Additionally, passenger counts at all New York State airports increased by 2.3 percent in 2017, complemented by a nearly four percent jump in hotel room demand.

Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, "The state's tourism industry continues to reach unprecedented heights, supporting job creation, small business growth and regional economies statewide."

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About New York State

New York State features 11 beautiful vacation regions. New York's attractions feature landmarks such as Niagara Falls, the largest park in the continental U.S. in the Adirondacks and treasures such as the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and the Strong Museum of Play in Rochester. New York State offers diverse activities for all: outdoor fun- snowmobiling, skiing and snowboarding, fishing, hiking and boating, year-round festivals and exploring the rich history and culture of one of the 13 original colonies. Visitors also enjoy the fine cuisine, beverage trails and farm-to-table fresh foods.

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CONTACT:
Phillip Novoa
Finn Partners
(646) 307-6330
Phillip.Novoa@finnpartners.com

Eric Scheffel
Empire State Development
(518) 292-5274
Eric.Scheffel@esd.ny.gov