The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau, Visit Springfield, announced the area generated a local economic impact of $601.3 million and contributed to an increase in visitor spending across Illinois in 2023. In addition, this boost in tourism contributed $18.8 in local tax revenue while directly supporting 5000 jobs in the tourism and hospitality industry, according to the latest data provided by Tourism Economics, a global tourism research firm, which measures the number of visitors as well as their impact on Illinois’ economy during the 2023 calendar year.
“For the third consecutive year, the Springfield area realized record-breaking traveler expenditures in 2023. Travelers spent $601 million dollars at hotels, restaurants, retail, gas stations, sites, and attractions last year. The visitor economy is strong, creates over 5,000 local jobs, and generates $18.8 million annually in local taxes,” said Tourism Director Scott Dahl.
Governor JB Pritzker recently announced that Illinois reached its highest-ever hotel tax revenue figures in FY24 ($322 million) – a 4.5% increase over the previous record set in FY23. Illinois welcomed 112 million domestic and international visitors who spent $47 billion in 2023 – an increase of 1 million visitors and $3 billion in spending from 2022, according to data provided by Tourism Economics. Visitor spending in 2023 surpassed 2019 levels for the first time, reaching 4% above its pre-pandemic benchmark. As a result of tourist spending and visits in 2023, the overall economic impact – which includes indirect and induced impacts – amounted to $83 billion, which is a 6.4% increase from 2022 figures.
“Illinois continues to make substantial investments in the travel and tourism sector, leading to an increase in visitors who are spending more time in our state and supporting local businesses," said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. "We’re excited to continue this momentum and further enhance tourism in Illinois, building on this record-breaking success."
Economic Impact of Domestic Travel by County:
Sangamon County
Travel expenditures – $601.3 million (12% increase)
Local tax revenue – $18.8 million (10% increase)
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