The West Virginia Department of Tourism announced that the state has surpassed $9.1 billion in annual tourism economic impact for the first time. Visitor volume to the state reached 77.2 million, with those visitors spending $6.6 billion, 4.1% more than the previous year and setting a new all-time high state record.
The new visitation and spending levels are both above 2019 levels, demonstrating a full recovery from the pandemic and robust new growth. Visitor spending is up 28.2% over 2019, drastically outpacing the U.S.’s overall pandemic recovery rate of 12.4% and showing continued growth in demand.
“When it comes to tourism, West Virginia is not only winning the Backyard Brawl – we are dominating,” said Governor Patrick Morrisey. “We will continue to leverage these positive trends to bring more people into the state, build up our workforce, and attract even more visitors who will contribute to our local economies.”
“I’d like to thank Governor Morrisey and the West Virginia Legislature for their ongoing support of West Virginia’s tourism industry. The continued investment fuels our growth and helps elevate our state as one of the top travel destinations in the country. I’m thrilled to see West Virginia reach this historic milestone, and I’m excited about our future,” said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby.
West Virginia’s tourism industry also generated $1.1 billion in tax revenues, with $619 million directly benefiting our state and local governments. Visitor spending in 2024 has reduced the tax burden on residents by nearly $859 per household. The growth was widespread, with each of the state’s nine travel regions showing growth and reaching a new record.
In 2024, tourism-supported jobs accounted for nearly seven percent of all jobs in the state and a total of $2.2 billion of income. The tourism industry supports nearly 61,000 West Virginia jobs, accounting for one out of every 15 jobs in the state.
“I also want to give special thanks to our local tourism businesses across the state who provide wonderful experiences and Appalachian hospitality that keep folks coming back year after year,” said Ruby.
Traveler spending in West Virginia contributes significantly to the state’s economy. Food and beverage accounted for $1.8 billion, with recreation and entertainment close behind at $1.6 billion. Retail, transportation and lodging surpassed $3 billion combined.
These record-breaking tourism numbers were presented at the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism, being held at the Morgantown Marriott at the Waterfront Place. In remarks at the conference, Secretary Chelsea Ruby recognized the more than 400 industry officials on site and the important role they’ve played in growing the tourism economy.
Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company that measures tourism spending and economic impact for West Virginia. The official research provider of U.S. Travel, Tourism Economics, provides impact studies for more than 30 destinations.
