- Office of Travel and Tourism
Media Contact
Abigail Phillips, Director of Communications
BOSTON — The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) today announced the 2024 economic impact of the state’s travel and tourism industry, which grew to $24.2 billion in direct spending from 52.6 million domestic and international travelers, generating $2.3 billion in state and local tax revenue and supporting 155,808 jobs across the state.
Total visitor spending in 2024 reflects a $600 million increase over the previous year, when visitors spent $23.6 billion across the state. The industry also added nearly 1,500 jobs compared to 2023, underscoring tourism’s continued momentum and its impact on small businesses, communities, and workers statewide.
“Our tourism industry supports thousands of jobs, brings in billions in economic benefit, and gives us an opportunity to showcase everything that makes Massachusetts so special,” said Governor Maura Healey. “It’s great to see that tourism in Massachusetts continues to be strong, especially as we gear up for another year of Massachusetts 250 celebrations, as well as the FIFA World Cup and Sail250. Our administration will continue to invest in the infrastructure, cultural programming, and destination marketing that strengthen local economies and position Massachusetts as a top travel destination.”
“Tourism is more than a visitor activity -- it’s a driver of local opportunity,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “From Gateway Cities to coastal towns, the sector supports jobs, energizes main streets, and brings national and international attention to communities across the state. As we look ahead to major events like Sail250 and FIFA World Cup, we have a real opportunity to showcase Massachusetts and ensure all regions benefit from this momentum.”
Tourism generated $2.3 billion in combined state and local tax revenue, sustaining essential public services while easing the tax burden on residents. Visitor spending helped fund municipal programs through local option room occupancy taxes and supported employment in a wide range of sectors including hospitality, transportation, retail, and the arts.
“Massachusetts has always been defined by its welcoming spirit, prolific cultural fabric, and deep sense of history,” said Kate Fox, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. “With major city and town anniversaries on the horizon and statewide celebrations planned, we’re proud to work alongside regional tourism councils, cultural institutions, and small businesses to showcase all that Massachusetts has to offer, from vibrant cities to historic villages, to travelers from around the world.”
For more information and to access the full 2024 Economic Impact of Travel report, visit https://www.visitma.com/media-industry-portal/stats-reports/.
About the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism
Massachusetts is made for nights on the town, days on the trails, and everything in between. The mission of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) is to promote Massachusetts as a four-season leisure and business travel destination for domestic and international travelers and contribute to the Commonwealth’s economy growth. MOTT offers assistance with itinerary planning, familiarization trips, images, and photographs and offers support in providing information to the travel trade, press, and media. To plan your trip to Massachusetts, please go to VisitMA.com.
###
###