Visitors spent $1.1 billion in Orange County in 2022, New Report Says
ORANGE COUNTY, N.Y. (Sept. 28, 2023)– Tourism’s vital and dynamic impact on Orange County soared in 2022, with visitor spending reaching $1.1 billion, up 22% from 2021 and exceeding pre-pandemic spending by 6%, according to a new report.
The study, “Economic Impact of Visitors In New York 2022: Hudson Valley Focus,” was produced by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company. Data showed that visitors to New York State spent nearly $79 billion, which represented an increase of $27 billion from 2021 and surpassed pre-pandemic 2019 level for the first time.
Orange County’s $1.1 billion in traveler spending exceeded 2019 by $64 million. What’s more, tourism in Orange County generated $153.8 million in local and state taxes in 2022, resulting in a tax savings of $1,158 per household. It was the highest tax savings per household among Hudson Valley counties. Plus, $394.1 million in labor income was inspired by direct and indirect tourism labor impacts. Overall, 11,161 jobs in Orange County were created by tourism, the report said.
“This report affirms what we see every day – tourism is a major driver of economic development not only locally but for our State. Orange County’s attractions draw visitors from nearby and around the world. That significantly drives our county’s economic growth and has helped us lower county taxes to rates not seen since the 1960s,” said County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus. “Tourism creates jobs and is a key part of our growing economy.”
“Travelers and residents alike continue to discover Orange County’s wonders and charms,” said Amanda Dana, Director of Orange County Tourism & Film. “We offer so many regional and widely renowned attractions and festivals, a lively craft beverage scene, new discoveries in every community, dining options for all tastes and charming lodging options. This report shows how much those activities bring in spending, jobs and taxes and how the allure of our county to travelers from around the world benefits us all.”
The $1.1 billion in traveler spending encompasses lodging, recreation, food/beverage, retail/services, transportation and second homes. Orange County had the most visitor spending in Retail & Service Stations in the Hudson Valley, comprising Orange, Westchester, Rockland, Dutchess, Putnam and Columbia counties.
Located just an hour from New York City, Orange County has something for children, adults and seniors. Attractions include recreational activities, history, shopping, arts and culture, farm markets, wineries, breweries, distilleries, seasonal festivals and an array of events. In addition, some of New York State’s biggest attractions are right here in Orange County. These include 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.
Across New York, the report said, the State saw both the number of visitors and visitor spending fully recover in 2022. More than 291 million visitors, both domestic and international, represented an increase 23% year over year. Spending jumped $27 billion over the previous year – and surpassed 2019 spending levels for the first time, registering 7% growth to $79 billion.
The total statewide economic impact – direct and indirect – was $123 billion. Some findings:
- The lodging and food and beverage industries see the largest tourism-related impacts in sales and labor.
- The state saw $39.8 billion in direct and indirect labor impacts.
- Tourism also brought $10 billion in state and local tax revenue.
- The taxes generated by tourism saved New York State households an average of $1,300 in taxes.
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.OrangeTourism.org. Additionally, a fun, free, 56-page travel guide is available for digital download at orangetourism.org/travel-guide/.
