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A new tourist record was set in Florida in 2024: 142.9 million people visited the "Sunshine State" that year, surpassing the numbers recorded the previous year, announced the state government this Wednesday.
The figure represents a 1.6% increase compared to 2023, the previous record for annual visits in the history of the southern state, authorities emphasized.
During the past year, 130.7 million domestic visitors, 8.9 million foreign tourists, along with 3.3 million Canadians, arrived in Florida, according to the official statistics published by the State.
Domestic visitors accounted for 91.5% of the total number of tourists, while foreign visitors made up 6.2%, and Canadians represented 2.3%.
Despite the damage caused by the devastating hurricanes Helene and Milton in Florida, the annual record was driven by the high number of visitors recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024, which also set a new benchmark with 33.1 million tourists, the highest figure in the state's history for that period.
The highest influx of visitors in Florida's history resulted in a strong tourism industry throughout 2024, with a 6.7% increase in hotel occupancy in the fourth quarter and a 1.6% rise in hotel nights sold during the year.
Airports across the state also experienced a “sustained growth”, with a 3.1% increase in total shipments compared to the previous year. There was a notable rise at the airports in Tallahassee, Panama City, and Pensacola.
“The results are clear: Florida is the best place to visit, live, and do business”, stated Governor Ron DeSantis. “Another record year is proof that leadership matters, and the Free State of Florida is a model for the nation.”
The Secretary of Commerce, J. Alex Kelly, stated that “Florida's tourism industry remains a global leader” and “continued to break records in 2024, recovering from a challenging hurricane season, driving economic growth, and improving the quality of life for Florida's communities and families.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Florida's Tourism Record in 2024
How many tourists visited Florida in 2024?
In 2024, Florida welcomed a total of 142.9 million tourists, setting a new record for the state. This figure represents a 1.6% increase compared to 2023, the previous record-breaking year for visits.
What impact did the record number of tourists have on Florida's economy?
The tourism record in 2024 significantly contributed to Florida's economy, increasing hotel occupancy by 6.7% in the last quarter of the year. Additionally, there was a 3.1% increase in total flights at the state's airports.
How did hurricanes Helene and Milton affect tourism in Florida?
Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused significant material damage in Florida, including flooding, destruction of homes and other structures, and power outages. Despite the devastation caused by both cyclones, Florida managed to maintain growth in tourism during 2024. The fourth quarter of the year was particularly strong, with the arrival of 33.1 million tourists.
What did Governor Ron DeSantis declare about the tourism record?
The governor Ron DeSantis stated that "Florida is the best place to visit, live, and do business", emphasizing that the record tourism figures are a testament to effective leadership and the state's appeal both nationally and globally.
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