California’s tourism industry sets records in 2016

Traveler spending in 2016 injected a record $126 billion into the Golden State’s economy, Visit California announced today as the industry marked the first-ever California Tourism Month. Tourism in California generated $10.3 billion in tax revenue and supported 1.1 million jobs last year, further solidifying tourism’s role as a key economic driver for the Golden State.

According to the annual economic impact report released by Visit California and Dean Runyan Associates, 2016 marks the seventh consecutive year of growth for the Golden State’s travel and tourism industry. California traveler spending grew 3.2 percent, out-indexing the nation by nearly a percentage point.

“This report shows that tourism is a powerhouse that generates community benefits and economic value for all Californians,” said Visit California President and CEO Caroline Beteta. “California Tourism Month provides an opportunity to celebrate tourism as an important pillar of our economy, and highlight an effective and dynamic industry that remains a vital asset in all regions of the state.”

The report – using data on the statewide and local economic impacts of tourism in California from 1992 to 2016 – shows that in the past 25 years, travelers in California have spent nearly $2.16 trillion, created more than 410,000 jobs, and generated more than $165.3 billion in local and state tax revenues.

Visit California is a statewide organization that works with local partners across the state to develop and implement innovative global marketing programs that instill a desire for travelers to experience the California dream. Successful global marketing campaigns reach targeted domestic and international visitors in 14 markets including China, Mexico, Canada and the United Kingdom. These cutting-edge marketing efforts inspire travelers to visit California, where they stimulate California’s economy and sustain valuable jobs around the state.

The release of this report is part of California Travel and Tourism Month, which occurs every May following a resolution enacted by the California State Legislature last year. Next week, California celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week when destinations in the Golden State will join communities across the nation to host events that communicate and celebrate the importance of sustaining the travel industry.