Visitor spending tops $50 billion for the first time in history, while visitation grows to 123.7 million, marking another milestone year after 2023’s unprecedented success

TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism (NJTT) today released the “2024 Economic Impact of Visitors to New Jersey” study at the New Jersey Tourism Industry Association’s annual Advocacy Day in Trenton, highlighting the tourism industry’s continued growth. The study showcases optimistic tourism forecasts for the Garden State with major events held in 2026, such as FIFA World Cup 2026™.

“We are proud that New Jersey continues to bring in new visitors every day to experience the State’s mix of natural beauty, rich history and cultural attractions,” said Governor Murphy. “With landmark events like the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and America’s 250th anniversary on the horizon, we cannot wait to show even more travelers, residents and friends the very best of what the Garden State has to offer.”

Key findings from the “2024 Economic Impact of Visitors to New Jersey” study:

• New Jersey welcomed 123.7 million total visitors in 2024, up three million visitors from 2023, with visitation increasing 2.7% year-over-year.
• Day-visitor volume reached more than 69.9 million, with spending hitting an all-time high of $6.915 billion.
• Overnight visits to New Jersey reached 53 million with overnight spending equaling $43.6 billion.
• Visitors spent a record $50.6 billion in New Jersey in 2024, up 3.1% from 2023, with a total economic impact of $80.4 billion across state industries.
• Recreation spending reached an all-time high, surpassing $6 billion for the first time – a 2.9% increase from the previous year.
• Visitor industry GDP was $24.7 billion in 2024, accounting for 2.9% of total New Jersey GDP.
• Visitor spending generated $5.4 billion in state and local taxes in 2024, equivalent to $1,545 in tax savings for every household in New Jersey.
• Visitor activity sustained 507,833 New Jersey jobs (or 1-in-12), representing 8.3% of all jobs in the state.

“Thanks to the dedication of our tourism industry members, along with the people of New Jersey who remain our greatest ambassadors, our visitation numbers have continued to rise—with no signs of slowing down,” said New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees NJTT in her capacity as Secretary of State. “Last year, tourism contributed over $24 billion to the state’s GDP, generated $5.4 billion in state and local tax revenue, and reduced the average New Jersey household tax burden by $1,545. These strong results underscore the vital role tourism plays as an economic driver for our state, and we’re confident the momentum will only grow in the years to come.”

Annual Visitor Volume Surpasses 2023 Levels
According to the state’s independent research partner, Tourism Economics, visitation to New Jersey increased 2.7% year-over-year in volume to 123.7 million from 2023’s previous record level of 120.5 million visitors. The figures reflect strong demand for New Jersey’s diverse travel offerings, with day visitation continuing to climb.

Visitor Spending Tops $50 Billion for the First Time in State’s History
Visitor spending grew across all sectors, generating $80.4 billion in total economic impact for New Jersey and producing a total of $5.4 billion in state and local tax revenues. This reduced the tax burden by $1,545 per household in New Jersey. Visitors to the Garden State spent a record $50.6 billion in 2024, an increase of 3.1% over the previous year. Total expenditures by day visitors hit an all-time high of $6.915 billion, exceeding 2023’s record figures by 8.52%.

Spending Across Various Sectors
Food and beverage purchases led visitor spending growth, totaling $14.2 billion in 2024, representing 28.1% of overall visitor spending in the state with a 5.2% year-over-year increase.

Recreation spending reached an all-time high, surpassing $6 billion for the first time with a 2.9% increase over 2023.

Lodging followed closely behind food and beverage at $13.45 billion, accounting for 26.6% of overall visitor spend.

Retail spending rose to approximately $8.6 billion, a 3% increase year-over-year.

Forecasts for 2025 from the “2024 Economic Impact of Visitors to New Jersey” study:

• New Jersey is projected to welcome 126.4 million visitors in 2025, a 2.2% increase from 2024.
• Day visits are projected to reach 71.9 million, up 2.7%, while overnight visits are projected to total 54.5 million, a 1.5% increase.
• Visitor spending is forecast to rise 3.5% to a record $52.3 billion, generating $5.5 million in state and local taxes

Important resources
The “2024 Economic Impact of Visitors to New Jersey” study, prepared by Tourism Economics, can be found in its entirety at https://visitnj.org/sites/default/files/2025-05/2024_-_Tourism_Economic_Impact_Study.pdf.

About New Jersey
New Jersey offers a wide variety of experiences to visitors all year long. Travelers and residents can enjoy outdoor adventures, renowned culinary offerings, educational opportunities, and a strong arts and cultural scene. With numerous state and national parks, beaches, skiing, tax-free shopping, historic sites, museums and more, New Jersey blends together its rich history and exciting present. Home to the nation’s first beach resorts and the birthplace of major inventions, New Jersey offers a picturesque escape and dynamic opportunities for visitors from near and far. For more information, visit www.visitnj.org.