Georgia welcomed a record 174.2 million domestic and international visitors in 2024, marking the third consecutive year of tourism growth and reinforcing the state’s position as one of the top travel destinations in the United States.
Governor Brian P. Kemp announced the results at the annual Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference, held this year at the Savannah Convention Center.
The state generated $45.2 billion in visitor spending during 2024, surpassing the previous year’s record by nearly 4%. Those expenditures supported 470,570 jobs across Georgia and delivered $5.1 billion in state and local tax revenues, saving each household an average of $1,285, according to data released by the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD).
Tourism as a Key Economic Driver
Tourism remains the second-largest economic contributor in Georgia, producing an $82 billion impact statewide in 2024, a 3% increase compared to the previous year. The visitor economy accounts for one in every 15 jobs, underscoring its role in sustaining employment across industries ranging from hospitality and transportation to arts and agriculture.
“Georgia’s scenic landscapes spanning the mountains to the coast, cultural attractions, and vibrant communities make our state a top destination that leaves visitors with a reason to keep Georgia on their minds,” said Governor Brian Kemp. He added that the industry’s success reflects the efforts of “the hardworking men and women statewide who make sure Georgia always puts its best foot forward.”
Commissioner Pat Wilson of GDEcD said the latest figures demonstrate tourism’s broader economic role. “Tourism is the front door to opportunity in Georgia, driving new investment, supporting jobs, and strengthening the very communities that help our state succeed in business and economic growth,” he said. Wilson emphasized the importance of partnerships with local and international stakeholders in sustaining growth.
Conference Highlights and Convention Sector Growth
The 2025 Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference brought together more than 400 industry professionals in Savannah. Organized by Explore Georgia, GDEcD’s tourism division, the three-day event showcased strategies to expand both leisure and business travel. The choice of the newly expanded Savannah Convention Center as the venue highlighted the role of meetings and conventions in the state’s visitor economy.
In 2024, more than 17 million domestic travelers visited Georgia for business and convention purposes, an increase of nearly 5% year-over-year. Their spending contributed $4.6 billion in direct expenditures, a 5.5% rise compared to 2023. Officials said the meetings sector generates billions annually and strengthens Georgia’s reputation as a destination for major events.
Jay Markwalter, GDEcD Deputy Commissioner of Tourism, credited collaboration among leaders and local communities for the state’s continued growth. “Georgia’s tourism success proves the power of partnerships,” he said. “Thanks to the leadership of Governor Kemp, our General Assembly, Commissioner Wilson, the Tourism Foundation Board of Directors, and the efforts of our statewide tourism industry, more visitors than ever before are choosing to spend their time and money experiencing everything that makes our state great.”
National Ranking and Global Outlook
Georgia maintained its position as the No. 5 state in the United States for overnight visitation, a ranking it has held for five consecutive years. Officials attribute this consistency to the diversity of the state’s offerings, from coastal beaches and mountain ranges to cultural attractions and a growing film and sports sector.
Explore Georgia continues to promote the state both domestically and internationally, raising awareness of its offerings. The agency leverages Georgia’s variety of experiences to attract both leisure travelers and corporate groups, aligning tourism promotion with economic development strategies.
The tourism data released by state officials is based on research conducted by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company specializing in global forecasting for the travel and tourism industry. The annual study measures the economic impact of tourism at both the state and county levels, providing insight into visitor spending, job creation, and tax revenue contributions.
Officials emphasized that tourism’s expansion benefits every region of Georgia. Communities across the state benefit from increased visitation, ranging from small towns offering local experiences to urban centers that cater to convention and business travelers. The growth of the industry, leaders said, reflects the combined efforts of local businesses, destination marketing organizations, and statewide initiatives.
With visitor spending and attendance setting new records, Georgia’s tourism industry enters 2025 with momentum. The sector’s continued growth is expected to further support employment, strengthen local economies, and maintain Georgia’s position as one of the leading destinations in the United States.
Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock.com
