Experience Kissimmee is spotlighting the powerful impact tourism continues to have on Osceola County’s economy, workforce, and quality of life as part of its ‘Value of Tourism’ initiative.
Tourism remains a driving force in Central Florida, generating economic opportunity and strengthening the community. Experience Kissimmee’s mission is to create lasting economic benefits by increasing visitation to the destination, ensuring that when visitors come to Central Florida, the entire community thrives.
“At Experience Kissimmee, we’re proud to champion an industry that fuels so much of what makes Osceola County thrive,” said DT Minich, President and CEO, Experience Kissimmee. “Tourism is far more than a getaway for visitors, it’s a vital economic force that supports our workforce, uplifts local businesses and enhances quality of life for our residents.”
Tourism by the numbers:
- In Central Florida, tourism workers earn approximately $7,000 more annually than their national counterparts (Source: BLS, Calendar Year 2024).
- Nearly $800 million in direct visitor spending was generated for local businesses through Experience Kissimmee’s sales and marketing efforts (Source: Impactulator, FY 2023–2024).
- More than $4.7 million has been invested in community non-profits over the past two fiscal years to support cultural and historical experiences (Source: Experience Kissimmee Impact Report, FY 2023–2024 and FY 2024–2025).
- Every $1 invested in Experience Kissimmee through the Tourism Development Tax returns $22 in economic impact to the local community (Source: Impactulator, FY 2023–2024).
- Visitor spending contributes to more than 35% of Osceola County’s total sales tax revenue (Sources: Zartico, Affinity, Calendar Year 2024).
2024 Osceola County tourism economic impact:
Tourism continues to deliver measurable benefits for residents and businesses alike:
- $7 billion in visitor spending, averaging $19.3 million daily
- 40,700 jobs supported, representing 35.3% of the local workforce
- $10.6 billion in total economic impact
- $2.3 billion in wages and compensation
- $685.3 million in state and local tax revenue
Tourism offsets $4,500 in local and state taxes for each household in Osceola County. Revenue generated by visitors helps fund essential community services, including schools, arts and culture, infrastructure and public safety.
Experience Kissimmee remains committed to fostering a vibrant and resilient destination where tourism continues to create opportunity, prosperity, and shared success across the community.
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