News Summary
In 2024, Rhode Island set a new record by welcoming 29.4 million visitors, reflecting a 3.5% increase from the prior year. Visitor spending soared to $6 billion, marking a 7% rise. The tourism sector now supports over 88,000 jobs and significantly contributes to the state’s economy, generating nearly $1 billion in tax revenue. Newport County has emerged as a primary attraction for tourists, highlighting Rhode Island’s growing appeal and economic impact from tourism.
Providence, Rhode Island – 2024 Sets New Tourism Records
Rhode Island achieved a significant milestone in 2024, welcoming a record 29.4 million visitors. This reflects a 3.5% increase from the previous year, indicating a robust recovery and growth in the state’s tourism sector. Visitor spending across the state reached an impressive $6 billion, marking a 7% increase from 2023 and showcasing the state’s appeal to tourists.
The impact of tourism on Rhode Island’s economy was substantial, contributing a total of $8.8 billion in economic output. This sector played a critical role in the state’s employment landscape, supporting 88,509 jobs, which accounts for 13% of all jobs in the state. In 2024, employment within the tourism sector grew by 2.1%, adding 1,897 jobs compared to the previous year.
Key Areas of Visitor Spending
Analyzing the categories of visitor spending sheds light on consumer behavior and priorities. Food and beverage establishments captured the largest share, accounting for $1.5 billion or 26% of total expenditures. Lodging also represented a significant area of spending at $1.3 billion, which equates to 22% of visitor expenditures. Additionally, air transportation saw a notable growth of 11.1% year-over-year, reflecting increasing travel options and connectivity.
Regional Highlights
Newport County emerged as a prime destination for out-of-state visitors, drawing significant numbers to its scenic coastlines and historic attractions. The influx of tourists to this region has greatly contributed to its local economy and overall tourism figures for the state.
Economic Contributions and Tax Revenue
The tourism industry also had a profound impact on state and local tax revenue, generating $992 million in 2024. This figure represents a 5.8% increase from the previous year. Such revenue underscores the importance of tourism in maintaining public services and infrastructure, as it indicates that each Rhode Island household would need to be taxed an additional $2,230 to compensate for the tax revenues provided by visitors in 2024.
Research Insights
This impressive data was compiled by the research firm Tourism Economics, a part of Oxford Economics. Their analysis helps paint a clear picture of the importance of tourism within the state, demonstrating its critical role in driving economic growth and job creation.
Conclusion
As Rhode Island continues to establish its presence as a popular travel destination, the tourism sector’s record-breaking performance in 2024 creates optimism for the future. Increased visitation and spending bolster the local economy, while the robust employment statistics reflect a thriving industry poised for ongoing success.
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Additional Resources
- ABC6: Nearly 30 Million Tourists Spent $6 Billion in Rhode Island in 2024
- GoLocalProv: State Claims Record 29.4 Million Visitors Came to Rhode Island in 2024
- Travel and Tour World: Discover the Majestic Newport Cliff Walk
- PR Newswire: Governor McKee Announces a Record 29.4 Million Visitors to Rhode Island in 2024
- Wikipedia: Tourism in Rhode Island
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
