Press Release  New Report: Massachusetts Ranked #1 in Outdoor Recreation Businesses Relocation

BOSTON — A recent report from Business Facilities, a leading resource for business site selection, has ranked Massachusetts as the fastest-growing outdoor recreation economy. The outdoor recreation economy is a significant and growing contributor to the U.S. economy. It is also a growing factor in where businesses and employees alike decide to work and live.  

“Massachusetts is at the forefront of harnessing the power of outdoor recreation to grow our economy and create good jobs,” said Governor Maura Healey. “People come from all over the world to visit Massachusetts. From sailing on our coastline to hiking in the Berkshires, and biking on all the trails in between, Massachusetts is the total package for outdoor recreation.”  

“Through the Mass Ready Act, our greatest assets—rivers, forests, and mountains—will continue to boost economic vitality and promote the rich culture and history of our communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “The preservation of our natural spaces enables outdoor recreation businesses, supports rural economies, and boosts regional tourism.” 

Using data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce, Massachusetts ranks as the number one state for outdoor recreation when evaluated based on the growth of this industry's contribution to state GDP and the concentration of employment in the sector. According to the most recent release from the BEA, the national outdoor recreation economy generated $1.1 trillion dollars in economic output. The value added from this sector was $564 billion, which represents 2.2% of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).  

“Our investments in public lands and outdoor recreation are paying off big,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “We are dedicated to promoting local economic growth through targeted grants for destination mountain biking and inclusive outdoor recreation events, which create more opportunities for communities to discover and enjoy the outdoors.” 

“Massachusetts is home to over 2,360 outdoor recreation businesses from fishing-hunting businesses to bike shops to outdoor retailers,” said Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation Director Paul Jahnige. "At the Office of Outdoor Recreation, we are working to strengthen this alliance of businesses and further build a strong foundation for new outdoor recreation innovation." 

Established in December 2022, MOOR collaborates with agencies and private partners to promote outdoor activities across the state, including hunting, fishing, horseback riding, paddling, swimming, and more.  

Outdoor recreation continues to solidify its position as a critical sector in the Massachusetts economy. BEA’s report demonstrates the importance of outdoor recreation for a competitive business economy. Additionally, outdoor recreation infrastructure investments in urban and rural communities and improvements to accessibility build resilient and diversified economies, connect residents, and improve public health. The industry’s contributions are essential to the economic vitality and social health of Massachusetts’ towns and cities. 

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