LANSING, Mich. -- The Michigan Economic Development Council says a new study shows visitor spending increased nearly 4.9 percent last year in the state.
Pure Michigan Vice President Kelly Wolgamott spoke to WOOD Radio about it Tuesday on West Michigan's Morning News.
"Those visitors spent over $30 billion in Michigan economies across the state," she said.
Wolgamott said the study indicates that tourism generated 350,000 jobs.
"So, 1 in every 17 jobs is related directly to tourism," Wolgamott told host Steve Kelly.
According to the report, lodging led spending gains, driven by demand growth and higher room rates. The student said it increased 6.2 percent year-over year.
"Food and beverage spending growth followed, increasing 5.4% compared to the previous year," the MEDC report said. "In 2024, 55-million overnight visitors spent $24.2 billion, with an average per-person spend of $440. Day spending increased to $6.5 billion, with visitors spending an average of $85 per person."
The Pure Michigan promotional campaign turns 20 years old next year.
"It still continues to be one of the strongest running campaigns out there," Wolgamott said. "In 2024, it influenced nearly 800,000 leisure trips, resulting in $1.3 billion in visitor spending. Those travelers there generated more than $80 million in state tax revenue."
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