October 1, 2019 – The numbers are in and Westchester is on the rise. County Executive George Latimer is proud to announce that 2018 saw Westchester’s travel and tourism become a nearly $2B billion industry.
Latimer said: “The tourism industry is important to Westchester County and all of its residents, directly providing good jobs and driving economic growth. These record numbers show that our efforts to promote all we have to offer in our picturesque County are working.”
In total, visitor spending grew 5% in 2018, representing 45% of all visitor spending in the Hudson Valley region. This ranks Westchester County third in visitor spending in New York State - behind only New York City and Long Island. This spending supported 24,360 jobs directly and indirectly in 2018 – 5% of all jobs in Westchester County.
Tourism activity benefits many industry sectors in Westchester County with all visitor spending categories growing in 2018 to make up that nearly $2B record. Spending on lodging jumped 8%, followed by food & beverage and retail & service stations, up 5%. Recreation, transportation and spending on second homes also rose 4% each.
Westchester County Film and Tourism Director Natasha Caputo said: “Westchester County reached new heights as a destination in 2018. The collective efforts between our tourism partners are paying off and reinforces that we are an ideal – and idyllic – destination for both business and leisure.”
Travel and tourism continues to be a significant driver of the County’s economy, providing revenue to support vital County services that residents rely on. Local taxes and state taxes generated $233M in 2018 from the travel and tourism industry alone.
Latimer concluded: “Whether it be for business meetings, outdoor recreation, art exhibits, history, music or great food – Westchester County is your ideal destination.”
Source: New York: Economic Impact of Tourism, Hudson Valley/Westchester report, Tourism Economics and supplied by NYSDED; hotel statistics: Smith Travel Research