California, November 23, 2025
California’s tourism industry reached a remarkable milestone in 2024, achieving an unprecedented visitor spending of $157.3 billion, a 3% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects the state’s strong attraction as a premier travel destination. The surge in tourism has notably enhanced California’s economy, supporting around 1.2 million jobs and generating $12.6 billion in taxes. Key regions such as San Diego, Anaheim, and Temecula Valley witnessed significant visitor influx, contributing billions to their local economies. Despite challenges posed by federal policies impacting international visitors, state officials are strategizing to sustain growth.
California Tourism Soars: $157.3 Billion in 2024
Visitor Spending Reaches All-Time High
California’s tourism industry has achieved a new milestone, with visitor spending reaching a record $157.3 billion in 2024, marking a 3% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores the state’s enduring appeal as a premier destination for travelers worldwide.
Economic Impact and Employment
The surge in tourism has significantly bolstered California’s economy. The industry supported approximately 1.2 million jobs and generated $12.6 billion in state and local taxes. This economic activity has been pivotal in sustaining local businesses and communities across the state.
Regional Highlights
Several regions have experienced notable growth. San Diego welcomed 32 million visitors in 2024, contributing $22 billion to the local economy. Anaheim attracted a record-breaking 25.8 million visitors, with spending totaling $6.5 billion. Additionally, Temecula Valley saw 3.4 million visitors, injecting $1.1 billion into the local economy. These figures highlight the widespread benefits of tourism throughout California.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite the positive trends, the industry faces challenges. The implementation of tariffs and other federal policies has led to a decline in international visitors, particularly from Canada, affecting local economies that rely on this demographic. In response, state officials are developing marketing strategies to attract international tourists and mitigate potential downturns.
Conclusion
California’s tourism sector continues to be a cornerstone of its economy, demonstrating resilience and growth. Ongoing efforts to address challenges and promote the state’s diverse attractions are essential to maintaining this upward trajectory. By supporting local businesses, residents can help sustain the growth and vitality of San Diego’s economic landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the total visitor spending in California in 2024?
The total visitor spending in California in 2024 was $157.3 billion, marking a 3% increase from the previous year.
How many jobs did the tourism industry support in California in 2024?
The tourism industry supported approximately 1.2 million jobs in California in 2024.
Which regions in California experienced significant tourism growth in 2024?
San Diego, Anaheim, and Temecula Valley experienced significant tourism growth in 2024, with San Diego welcoming 32 million visitors, Anaheim attracting 25.8 million visitors, and Temecula Valley seeing 3.4 million visitors.
What challenges is California’s tourism industry currently facing?
California’s tourism industry is facing challenges due to federal policies, including tariffs, which have led to a decline in international visitors, particularly from Canada.
What measures are being taken to address the decline in international visitors?
State officials are developing marketing strategies to attract international tourists and mitigate potential downturns in the tourism sector.
Key Features of California’s Tourism Boom in 2024
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Visitor Spending | $157.3 billion, a 3% increase from 2023 |
| Jobs Supported | Approximately 1.2 million jobs |
| State and Local Taxes Generated | $12.6 billion |
| San Diego Visitors | 32 million, contributing $22 billion to the local economy |
| Anaheim Visitors | 25.8 million, with spending totaling $6.5 billion |
| Temecula Valley Visitors | 3.4 million, injecting $1.1 billion into the local economy |
| Challenges Faced | Decline in international visitors due to federal policies, including tariffs |
| Measures Taken | Development of marketing strategies to attract international tourists |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
