Tourism has a local annual impact of $10 billion, says Experience Kissimmee

What is the annual economic impact of tourism in Osceola County?

Eleven numbers. That’s a lot of numbers.

According to a report released Friday by Experience Kissimmee, the province’s tourism marketing arm, it is Research concluded that the tourism sector generated an economic impact of $10 billion between 2022 and 2023. Osceola County saw approximately 10 million overnight visitors and nearly $65 billion in visitor spending, leading to a record year of Tourism Development Tax (TDT) collections of $81 million, and total state and local tax collections of $640 million.

These numbers are a testament to how the tourism industry plays an important role in shaping the daily lives of Osceola County residents, said Experience Kissimmee CEO DT Minich.

“A visit to Kissimmee offers more than just endless beautiful weather and incredible visitor experiences. It also translates into tangible benefits for our residents,” said DT Minich, President and CEO of Experience Kissimmee. “For everyone we welcome to Kissimmee, this means jobs, tax relief, competitive wages and an improved community for Osceola County residents.”

TDT revenues fund things like community events, sports and arts facilities and public school initiatives, saving an average of $4,700 per household in taxes, Experience Kissimmee reports.

And to share in the wealth, Experience Kissimmee presented return funds, totaling more than $1.1 million, to seven supported organizations: the Osceola and St. Cloud Chambers of Commerce, Kissimmee Gateway Airport, the Kissimmee Valley Livestock Show, Osceola Center for the Arts, Silver Spurs Riding Club and the Osceola Historical Society and Welcome Center.