Last year, Kentucky gained $4.3 billion generated by tourism. This is a record high for the Commonwealth that impacted more than 97,000 jobs across the state. According to officials, more than 80 million people visited Kentucky and spent over $10 billion.
Governor Andy Beshear said this is the third year in a row that Kentucky has broken a record on tourism. He added this economic development has reached people in every corner of the state, including hotel and lodging employees, restaurant employees, retail workers, and transportation workers.
“We have now secured three records in a row. Three years ago, it was the best year ever for Kentucky tourism. Two years ago, then became the best year ever for Kentucky tourism. We just announced that last year beat both of them and was the best year for Kentucky tourism,” said Beshear.
Governor Andy Beshear said this economic growth has affected nearly every community in Kentucky in some way. He added he is hopeful that people who visit Kentucky will be enticed to move or start a business in the state.
“Last year Kentucky welcomed 80 million travelers from across the world. Those visitors came into our local communities and spent $10.1 billion. That is a 3.8% increase over 2023. That success has reached every corner of the Commonwealth and lots of communities saw big wins,” said Beshear.
Reporting shows Jefferson County brought in $4.4 billion, supporting over 28,000 jobs. Similarly, Fayette County produced $1.7 billion in economic impact, affecting nearly 12,000 jobs.
In the Kentucky Appalachian Region, which includes Rowan and 13 surrounding counties, tourism supported more than 4,200 jobs and generated nearly $746 million in spending, labor, and local taxes.