Kossuth County Sees 2.1% Increase in Travel Spending

The Iowa Tourism Office released new data showing tourism-related expenditures in the state reached $7.5 billion in 2024, a 2.8% increase over 2023. Travel-generated expenditures in Kossuth County totaled $14.5 million, an increase of 2.1% over 2023.

Additional data from the Tourism Economics study shows travel-generated state and local tax receipts at $1.2 billion. Tourism in Iowa also supported 71,918 jobs. The tourism industry employs 138 people in Kossuth County.

“Growth in tourism is a great thing for our community and our local businesses,” said City of Algona Mayor Rick Murphy. “As a city we benefit from hotel motel tax dollars when guests enjoy an overnight stay, and tourism provides a boost to a variety of other businesses. Bringing people into Algona and the Kossuth County area has a positive impact on food and beverage sales, retail sales, and spending within our local arts, recreation and entertainment sectors. Additionally, the positive experiences of our visitors help spread the word  about our community and all that we have to offer.”

In Kossuth County, retail spending increased by 7.6% and food and beverage spending increased by 4.8%, compared to 2023.

“This year’s numbers reflect the continued strength of our tourism economy and the enduring appeal of our state’s destinations,” said Amy Zeigler, manager of the Iowa Tourism Office. “To keep this momentum going, we’ll continue to focus on understanding the evolving motivations of today’s travelers and helping Iowa communities connect with them in the most impactful ways.”

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.