JACKSON, Wyo. — Tax revenue generated by tourism in and to Wyoming generated more than 50% more revenue in 2021 than in 2020, according to preliminary findings from the Wyoming Office of Tourism’s 2021 Economic Impact Report.
Visitors spent $4 billion in travel expenses and generated $243 million in revenue, according to the report. The state also saw 8.1 million visitors in 2021 — 16.8% more than 2020.
“It is exciting that more people continue to come to Wyoming and experience all the things we love about our state,” Governor Mark Gordon said. “It is important that we continue our efforts to grow this valuable sector of our economy.”
The travel industry is now estimated to represent 3.7% of the total state’s GDP. Accommodations spending grew the most, by 61.8%, suggesting more people are staying overnight in Wyoming and spending more money.
The leisure and hospitality sector gained an estimated 1,730 jobs, and accounted for 97% of job gains in 2021.
Growth isn’t quite as drastic when compared to 2019, pre-pandemic. The travel industry GDP was similar in 2021 and 2019, according to the report. Travel spending increased 1.7% compared to 2019.
“Despite the ongoing challenges still facing global tourism, the grit and fortitude of Wyoming’s hospitality and tourism industry shined through in 2021, making it a game-changing year for the state economy,” said Diane Shober, executive director for the Wyoming Office of Tourism. “Wyoming will continue to be a leading travel destination in the United States, and all indicators point to economic growth going into 2022.”
The preliminary data was released ahead of the Governor’s Hospitality and Tourism Conference Feb. 28-March 1.
The full report is available online.
