Savannah’s Tourism Industry Achieves Economic Impact of $4.7 Billion
Nestled along the southern coastline, Savannah, Georgia, continues to set new heights as an influential player in tourism and economic development. With its historic charm and myriad of attractions, it has successfully generated an outstanding economic impact of $4.7 billion, as per a detailed study by Longwoods International, acclaimed travel and tourism research experts.
Surge in Visitor Spending
Longwoods International’s 2023 Travel USA Report delves into the trends and patterns shaping domestic travel within the United States. The report underlines a 6.5% escalation in visitor spending in comparison to 2022, culminating in an investment of over $4.7 billion within Savannah and Chatham County. A fundamental driver behind this surge in economic growth is Savannah’s power to draw repeat overnight visitors. The study reveals that nearly 69% of visitors were not first-time tourists, having visited the picturesque town at least once before, with 39% visiting within the past year.
Extended Stay in Savannah
Savannah’s allure also seems to be keeping tourists in town for longer. The average length of visitor stay has remarkably increased from 2.3 nights to 2.8 nights. While the data from 2022 indicates only three out of ten visitors stayed for three nights – with most preferring a two-night stay – the situation was remarkably different in 2023. Eight out of ten tourists chose to extend their stay to three nights, signaling a growing intent to devote more time absorbing the essence of Savannah.
This extended visitor stay translates to an increase in spending, further bolstering the city’s economy. As stated by Visit Savannah’s president and CEO, “the overall Savannah visitor experience in terms of accommodations, dining, and activities is living up to the needs and expectations of our customers.”
Supporting Local Businesses
The report further emphasizes the positive trend of tourists favoring local businesses, which is an essential contributor to Savannah’s economic growth. Nearly two-thirds of the survey’s respondents consciously preferred locally-owned restaurants and retail shops, emphasizing the increasing importance of supporting local economies and promoting sustainable tourism. This surge in support for local businesses is a trend the industry must acknowledge and work to enhance further.
Impact on Employment and The Road Ahead
The prosperity of Savannah’s tourism industry also holds implications for the local workforce, sustaining nearly 30,000 jobs annually within the hospitality and tourism sector. Looking forward, if Savannah continues to work its charm on visitors, and the hospitality sector maintains its commitment to delivering high-quality services, the city’s tourism industry can only expect to experience continued growth.
As Savannah continues to bask in popularity among tourists, the city’s hospitality leaders should take due note of the salient features highlighted in the 2023 Travel USA Report. They should strive to further enhance visitor experience, thereby ensuring Savannah remains a coveted destination throughout the year,
