Reports cite positive contribution of tourism to local economy

Visitor spending exceeds $1 billion

For the first time, annual tourism spending by visitors exceeded $1 billion in local Hamilton County businesses.

A new study released by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC) and conducted by Rockport Analytics shows the tourism industry’s role throughout 2023 as a driver of economic vitality in Hamilton County. Tourism directly supported more than 10,000 jobs and generated $1.1 billion in spending. The net economic impact totaled nearly $690 million.

“In 2023, the earliest year we have for this data, pent-up demand for travel was still at an all-time high as the industry recovered from COVID-19’s restrictions,” Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. President and CEO Karen Radcliff said. “We knew we were getting close to the billion-dollar tipping point, and it happened in 2023. The nation saw complete recovery to 2019 levels in 2024, and Hamilton County followed suit with a strong leisure travel sector driving the way.”

Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. plays a pivotal role in the county’s tourism economic growth, both through marketing and promotion as well as product development.

Data-driven insights

Hamilton County Tourism manages a robust data and research program to help manage growth and provide insights into the market. The program delivers viable master planning, digital marketing analysis, visitor demographics and arrivals, advertising effectiveness, resident sentiment, and economic impact, among other activities.

Residents value tourism’s contribution to quality of life

Providing intelligence is a hallmark of the organization and an important value offered to community. When asked in a survey of the importance of tourism to Hamilton County, 94 percent of residents rated tourism somewhat, very or extremely important to the local economy. In the same survey, tourism was highly regarded by residents as a strategy that provides opportunity, revenue and quality of life for community. (MMGY Global)

Marketing efforts factor into economic impact

The Hamilton County Tourism’s destination advertising proved effective in 2023 with key messages driving mid-week visitation when the hospitality industry needed the business. A post-campaign analysis showed 24 percent destination awareness generated in Chicago and Cincinnati, as well as $446 spent in market for every dollar spent on advertising. (SMARI Insights)

To learn more about Hamilton County Tourism’s strategic plans and future initiatives, go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com/About-Us.