St. Pete-Clearwater has solidified its position as a premier travel destination, delivering a record-breaking economic impact of $11.2 billion to Pinellas County during fiscal year 2024. Visit St. Pete/Clearwater (VSPC) President and CEO Brian Lowack highlighted the region’s continued success as a global travel hotspot, emphasizing its blend of award-winning beaches and diverse attractions.

Key Highlights from Fiscal Year 2024:

• Economic Impact: Tourism generated over $11.2 billion in total economic impact for Pinellas County.
• Visitor Numbers: More than 15.4 million visitors flocked to “America’s Favorite Beaches,” marking a significant influx of local, domestic, and international travelers.
• Accommodations Revenue: With $1.6 billion in overall accommodations revenue, including hotels, motels, RV parks, and online vacation rentals, the region maintained its impressive growth for a second consecutive year.
• Direct Spending: Visitors contributed $6.4 billion in direct spending, surpassing the figures of fiscal year 2023.
• Tourist Development Tax (TDT): The area collected over $96 million in TDT funds, achieving its third straight year of collections exceeding $95 million.

Sustaining a Thriving Tourism Economy

For the third consecutive year, St. Pete-Clearwater recorded 6.4 million hotel room nights, further demonstrating its enduring appeal among tourists. This achievement underscores the collaborative efforts of local stakeholders, including the Tourist Development Council, the Board of County Commissioners, and the area’s robust hospitality industry.

Leadership Commentary

Reflecting on these achievements, Brian Lowack credited the destination's continued growth to strong partnerships and a shared vision:

“Once again, this past year, St. Pete-Clearwater proved that it is one of the top destinations for local, domestic, and international travelers seeking award-winning beaches and ready to explore the incredible experiences found within our slice of paradise. The combined efforts of our Visit St. Pete-Clearwater team, the Tourist Development Council, the Board of County Commissioners, and our local hospitality businesses continue to drive visitors and fuel our local economy.”

A Vision for the Future

As St. Pete-Clearwater looks ahead to 2025, these milestones reinforce its status as a thriving hub for tourism and economic growth. The sustained success serves as a testament to the region’s ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver exceptional experiences to visitors worldwide.