News Summary
Charleston’s tourism sector reached a historic milestone with an economic impact of $14.03 billion in 2024, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. Tourist visits rose to 7.89 million, and average visitor spending hit $1,105 per adult. The industry provided jobs for 54,900 individuals, highlighting recovery and growth post-pandemic. Charleston International Airport also saw record passenger numbers, contributing to the city’s prominence as a travel destination. Despite the success, officials are preparing for discussions focused on sustainable tourism and managing growth while preserving local quality of life.
Charleston has marked a significant milestone in its tourism sector, recording a total economic impact of $14.03 billion in 2024. This figure represents a 7% increase from the previous year’s impact and illustrates the city’s capability to attract visitors while boosting economic growth.
The number of tourists visiting the Charleston area rose to 7,890,000 in 2024, showcasing a modest increase of 1.2% compared to 2023. This uptick is bolstered by an increase in average visitor spending, which climbed by 5.5% to reach approximately $1,105 per adult per trip, compared to $1,048 the previous year. With the tourism industry contributing to 23.5% of all sales in the Charleston region, its impact on the local economy is undeniable.
In line with this rise in economic activity, the tourism sector in Charleston employed a record number of individuals, totaling 54,900 workers in 2024. This increase marks a substantial growth in employment opportunities within the industry and reflects the broader economic recovery following the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
Since 2021, the economic impact attributed to tourism has surged by 32%, highlighting a trend where visitor numbers have grown by only 9%, but the average expenditure per visitor has seen a considerable rise. Charleston achieved another impressive feat with 4,940,000 hotel room nights sold in 2024, resulting in an average hotel occupancy rate of 70.6%. The average daily hotel rate also experienced a slight increase, climbing from $185 to $186.
The capacity to attract visitors to the area is also evidenced by activity at Charleston International Airport, which welcomed a record 6,290,000 passengers in 2024. This growth in air travel, combined with significant events and attractions that make Charleston a popular destination, has been a driving force behind the city’s prosperity in the tourism sector.
Looking ahead, the economic contribution of tourism to South Carolina has risen by 65% over the past decade, indicating a robust tourism ecosystem in the state. With new hotel developments anticipated in 2025—fueled by the increasing demand for accommodations—Charleston seems poised for continued growth in this sector.
As the year concluded positively for tourism, December was noted as a particularly strong month for hotel performance. However, officials are now grappling with challenges related to managing the growth of tourism while maintaining local livability. Responding to these concerns, a forum titled “The Future of Responsible Tourism” is scheduled for May 20, aiming to address the balance between fostering tourism and preserving the quality of life for residents.
Overall, the achievements seen in Charleston’s tourism industry reflect not just a recovery, but a revitalization that underscores the area’s attractiveness as a destination. The data presented highlights both the benefits and the challenges associated with continued growth in tourism, setting the stage for discussions on sustainable practices in the future.
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