Explore Charleston and the College of Charleston teamed up to release the Economic Impact of Tourism report for 2024, conducted by the College’s Office of Tourism Analysis — and the numbers show that tourism is booming.
The greater Charleston area had a record-breaking year, generating more than $14 billion — a 7.1% increase from 2023. Interestingly, this growth wasn’t driven by a huge surge in visitors. Tourist numbers rose by only 1.2%.
Instead, the visitors who did come, spent more — about 5.5% more per person compared to the previous year. That suggests Charleston is attracting travelers who stay longer, spend more, and may be flying in.
As we know, tourism is a big part of our economy, the reports shows 23.5% of all sales in the region. The report also noted a record number of locals working in hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related jobs.
Additional fun facts:
Charleston welcomed an estimated 7.89 million visitors in 2024. Most of them came from these states: North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Virginia, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, New Jersey.
Tops metro areas or cities are Charlotte, Atlanta, New York City, Raleigh, Orlando, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, Tampa and Jacksonville in Florida, and Greensboro, North Carolina.
And what’s drawing visitors? Charleston’s historic sites, food and restaurants, tours, shopping, beaches and waterfronts, festivals and events, outdoor recreation, and attractions.
