State Claims Record 29.4 Million Visitors Came to Rhode Island in 2024

State Claims Record 29.4 Million Visitors Came to Rhode Island in 2024

 

Rhode Island Commerce claims the state realized a record 29.4 million visitors in 2024, a 3.5% increase from the previous year. These visitors spent a total of $6 billion, representing an increase of 7%, according to new data provided by research firm Tourism Economics.

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According to the state, Rhode Island 2024 Numbers at a Glance:

 

    •    29.4 million visitors (+3.5%)

    •    $6 billion in visitor spending (+7%)

    •    $8.8 billion in total economic impact

    •     88,509 jobs supported (+2.1%)

    •    representing 13% of all jobs in Rhode Island

    •    $992 million in state and local tax revenue (+5.8%)

 

 

New Jobs Created

Tourism continues to be a major driver of Rhode Island’s economy, supporting 13% of all jobs statewide. In 2024, industry employment grew by 2.1% to 88,509 jobs, an increase of 1,897 jobs compared to 2023. Of these, 31,089 positions were in the food and beverage industry alone, highlighting the industry’s importance to our economy.

 

Increased Visitor Spending - Airport Drove Growth

Visitor spending also continues to climb, reflecting Rhode Island’s growing appeal as a premier travel destination. According to data, travel expansion in 2024 was reflected in steady day and overnight demand growth. Of the $6 billion spent in Rhode Island last year by visitors, food and beverage accounted for $1.5 billion or 26% of total visitor spending. In comparison, lodging accounted $1.3 billion or 22% of total visitor spending.

 

Spending growth was led by air transportation, increasing 11.1% year-over-year.

 

Massachusetts Growth

In Massachusetts, the Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT)  announced in August that the 2024 economic impact of the state’s travel and tourism industry, which grew to $24.2 billion in direct spending from 52.6 million domestic and international travelers, generated $2.3 billion in state and local tax revenue and supported 155,808 jobs across the state.

Total visitor spending in 2024 reflects a $600 million increase over the previous year, when visitors spent $23.6 billion across the state. The industry also added nearly 1,500 jobs compared to 2023, underscoring tourism’s continued momentum and its impact on small businesses, communities, and workers statewide.