Statewide report shows tourism is breaking records in Tennessee
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Ron Travis, R-Dayton, announced visitors spent $86,526,800 in Bledsoe, Rhea, Sequatchie and Van Buren Counties in 2023, according to newly released data from the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD).
“Whether you want to enjoy the beautiful scenic views at Fall Creek Falls State Park or dive into history at The Scopes Trial Museum and Rhea County Courthouse, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here,” Travis said. “I’m thrilled to see the growth and benefits for our local families. I hope visitors continue to appreciate the wonderful place we call home for many years to come.”
The data below highlights the impact of visitors within the incorporated and unincorporated areas of these four counties.
Bledsoe County
- Visitors generated $4,210,400 in spending in 2023 (5.74% increase from 2022)
- Direct visitor spending generated $216,100 in state tax revenue and $191,400 in local tax revenue
- Each household saved $84 in state and local taxes as a result of tourism spending
- 27 jobs were supported by direct visitor spending
Rhea County
- Visitors generated $41,577,200 in spending in 2023
- Direct visitor spending generated $2,351,100 in state tax revenue and nearly $1.8 million in local tax revenue
- Each household saved $326 in state and local taxes as a result of tourism spending
- 370 jobs were supported by direct visitor spending
Sequatchie County
- Visitors generated $6,622,100 in 2023
- Direct visitor spending generated $265,600 in state tax revenue and $270,00 in local tax revenue
- Each household saved $90 in state and local taxes as a result of tourism spending
- 32 jobs were supported by direct visitor spending
Van Buren County
- Visitors generated $34,117,100 in 2023
- Direct visitor spending generated $2,208,500 in state tax revenue and $1,260,700 in local tax revenue
- Each household saved $1,425 in state and local taxes as a result of tourism spending
- 133 jobs were supported by direct visitor spending
Statewide, tourism generated a record $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending and saw 144 million visitors in 2023. The report also showed statewide visitor spending generated $3.2 billion in direct state and local tax revenues.
The 2023 Economic Impact on Travel Report analyzes statewide spending and visitation from domestic and international travelers to Tennessee. The TN Travel Impact Interactive County Dashboard provides instant access to key metrics, statewide and by county, about the economic impact of travel to Tennessee. This research was conducted by Tourism Economics, commissioned by the TDTD.
In the model used for this study, it estimated the portion of the 2023 calendar year spending attributable to visitors. A visitor includes those who stayed overnight or travelled more than 50 miles to the destination.
The report focuses specifically on spending in retail, recreation, accommodations, dining and transportation services. When visitors spend money in these categories, it generates state and local taxes that help fund schools, roads and other needed public services.
The TDTD is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. For more information on TDTD’s efforts and travel inspiration, visit TNvacation.com.
State Rep. Ron Travis represents District 31 which includes Bledsoe, Rhea, Sequatchie and Van Buren Counties.