ORANGE COUNTY, N.Y., Sept. 12, 2024 – Orange County, N.Y.’s tourism industry surged during 2023, as visitor spending reached $1.196 billion, up 7.6% from one year earlier, according to a new report. The substantial increase mirrored New York State’s tourism trends, which saw $88 billion in direct tourism spending – up $9 billion or 12% from 2022 for the third consecutive year of double-digit growth, the report said.
Nearly one-quarter of the region’s tourism money was spent in Orange County. Westchester and Orange Counties take the lion’s share of the visitor spending for the Hudson Valley Region. The data is detailed in a new study, “Economic Impact of Visitors In New York 2023: Hudson Valley Focus” produced by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company.
Tourism in Orange County generated approximately $162 million in local and state taxes in 2023. Orange County generated approximately $404 million in labor income, including both direct jobs in the industry and indirect jobs supported by tourism-related activities. Overall, 11,728 jobs in Orange County were created by tourism, the report said. The Tourism Economics study details the industry’s statewide and regional importance and underscores that New York State not only remains a top destination, but travel demand remains strong in the post-pandemic landscape.
“Orange County’s dynamic tourism opportunities continue to powerfully fuel the local economy, helping to create jobs and fund municipal services. Visitor spending revenue has helped keep Orange County’s taxes at rates not seen since the 1960s,” said Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus. “Orange County’s rich blend of history, cutting-edge attractions, family-friendly destinations, and natural beauty support local residents’ quality of life and appeal to visitors’ sense of adventure.”
Located just an hour north of New York City, Orange County is a renowned family-fun destination, with attractions for children, adults and senior citizens. Attractions include recreational activities, history, shopping, arts and culture, farm markets, wineries, breweries, distilleries, seasonal festivals, and a vast array of seasonal events. Some of New York State’s biggest attractions call Orange County home, including the United States Military Academy at West Point, Storm King Art Center, LEGOLAND® New York, and Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. Amid the County’s spectacular scenery, visitors can dine on the Hudson River, raft the Delaware River, hike the Appalachian Trail, and spend the night with a view of beautiful mountains.
Visitor spending in Orange County increased in 2023 from 2022 in key categories:
- Retail/Service Stations: $509 million vs. $492 million, up 3.4% and the highest dollar amount of any Hudson Valley county and the Catskills.
- Food and Beverage: $332 million vs. $304 million, more than 9% higher.
- Lodging: $159 million vs. $147 million, a jump of 8.1%.
- Transportation: $142 million compared to $121 million, more than 17% more.
- Recreation: $37 million vs. $33 million, 12.1% higher.
- Second homes: $16 million, up from $15 million, an increase of 6.6%.
“Orange County’s beauty, charm, and unforgettable experiences continue to draw visitors, and that success – due in great part to the dedicated tourism industry workforce, is invaluable to Orange County’s economic strength,” said Amanda Dana, Director of Orange County Tourism & Film. “Our destinations excel in hospitality, lodging, dining, all combining to craft indelible memories. These are key elements that enhance Orange County’s appeal, not just locally, but on a regional, national, and even global scale.”
New York State recorded a 5% increase in visitation to 306.3 million travelers, up from 291.5 million in 2022, while state and local tax revenues generated by tourism saved the average New York State household $1,420 in taxes. Tourism-supported jobs accounted for 7.4% of all jobs in the state last year, up from 7.1% in the prior year.
Pickocny.com, Orange County’s tourism website, provides comprehensive information on lodging, activities, and attractions, and includes create-your-own itineraries as well as suggested itineraries. Groups are encouraged to call ahead for special arrangements. Orange County Tourism’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/pickocny, provides a fabulous guide for up-to-the-minute postings of all area events and activities available to visitors.
About Orange County Tourism & Film
Orange County Tourism & Film, based in Goshen, N.Y., is the County’s tourism and film production headquarters and a participant in the I LOVE NY program. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging, events, and film resources can be found at www.pickocny.com. Additionally, a fun, free, 60-page travel guide is available for digital download at www.pickocny.com/travel-guide.
