The Iowa Tourism Office released new data showing tourism-related expenditures in the state reached $6.9 billion in 2022, a 13 percent increase over 2021. Travel-generated expenditures in Kossuth County totaled $14.7 million of direct visitor spending in 2022, an increase of 9.8% over 2021.
Additional data from the Tourism Economics study shows travel-generated state and local tax receipts at $1.1 billion. Tourism in Iowa also supported 68,607 jobs, comprising 5% of all jobs in the state. The tourism industry directly employs 99 people in Kossuth County, or 2.7% of all jobs in the county.
“Tourism plays an important role in our local economy and it’s still climbing back to normal levels after COVID-19 emerged in 2020. As we enter the holiday shopping window, it’s the ideal time to get out and support our local retailers, restaurants and shops. Shopping locally is one of the most effective ways we can support our local economy,” said Joanne Roepke Bode, Communications Manager for the City of Algona.
The travel sector is an integral part of the Iowa economy. Visitors generate significant economic benefits to households, businesses, and government alike and represent a critical driver of the state’s future. The entire report is available at traveliowa.com.
The Iowa Tourism Office, part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, works closely with community partners, attractions and events, to promote the state’s beautifully vast scenery and unique history. For more information on everything Iowa has to offer tourists, visit traveliowa.com.