May 6, 2025 - Cheyenne, Wyo. - The Wyoming Office of Tourism (WOT) announces the release of the 2024 Wyoming Economic Impact of Travel analysis amid National Travel and Tourism Week, highlighting the significant value of the visitor economy. Wyoming, a destination for explorers seeking adventure, wide-open spaces and authentic Western experiences, continues to show why travel and tourism is a key driver as the state’s second-largest industry, generating revenue, supporting communities and stimulating job creation.
The Economic Impact of Travel analysis was developed by Dean Runyan Associates to empower Wyoming leaders, businesses and residents with insightful data on the industry’s significance to the state’s economy. The analysis demonstrates how travel uplifts communities – creating jobs and boosting local businesses and services. By showcasing the impact at both state and county levels, it underscores the far-reaching economic benefits of the industry.
“Each visitor to the state helps fuel essential industries across Wyoming and supports all 23 counties, contributing to vibrant, resilient communities,” said Diane Shober, executive director for WOT. “The 2024 results are yet another testament to the vital role the travel and tourism industry serves in building a thriving economy and setting the stage for future generations to prosper.”
Visitor spending, in turn, generates much-needed tax revenues that are crucial for supporting important local and state government functions. Additionally, travel and tourism act as a catalyst for growth and innovation in key industries including manufacturing, agriculture and healthcare – strengthening local communities, enhancing the quality of life for residents and making Wyoming an appealing destination for prospective visitors.
According to the Economic Impact of Travel analysis, in 2024, the number of visitors remained relatively the same as 2023. Though Wyoming saw approximately the same number of visitors from the previous year, they spent slightly more during their visit, despite lower overall prices in the travel sector.
Below, discover a few top highlights from the 2024 analysis:
- Wyoming welcomed 8.7 million visitors in 2024.
- These visitors spent $4.9 billion purchasing goods and services while in the state – a 1.6% increase from 2023.
- Visitor spending generated $277.2 million in sales and use tax for local and state governments – a 4.3% increase over 2023.
- Approximately 440 jobs were created as a result of travel spending – a 1.3% increase from the previous year.
The 2024 Economic Impact of Travel analysis provides a detailed breakdown of travel trends and insights for each Wyoming county.
To discover more about Wyoming and why the state stands as a top travel destination, explore more on travelwyoming.com
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