Pennsylvania Office of Tourism Releases 2022 Visitor Data - Erie County saw increases from 2021
Erie, PA: A new report from the Pennsylvania Tourism Office shows the tourism industry in the Commonwealth generated $76.7 billion in economic impact, supported 486,871 jobs, contributed $4.7 billion in state and local taxes, and welcomed 192.4 million visitors in 2022. The results of this report were highlighted by DCED Deputy Secretary of Tourism Carrie Lepore during VisitErie's State of the Industry meeting on Tuesday, March 12 at the Bayfront Convention Center. The 2022 Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism report provides state, regional, and county level estimates that demonstrate the vital importance of the travel industry to Pennsylvania's economy. Governor Josh Shapiro is calling for a $15 million increase in tourism funding in his 2024-25 budget proposal, which would support the nearly 500,000 Pennsylvanians who work in the travel and tourism industry. This major investment will drive economic growth, leading to new businesses and jobs and a stronger economy for all Pennsylvanians.
Erie County 2022 Highlights:
- Total visitor spending was $1.03 billion - an 11.8% increase from 2021.
- Visitor-generated taxes totaled $112 million.
- Visitor spending rose 13%, at $1.75 billion in the PA Great Lakes Region (Erie, Crawford, Mercer, and Venango counties) surpassing pre-pandemic levels and exceeding numbers reported for any one year (2016 through 2022).
VisitErie President and CEO John Oliver remarked, "These findings highlight the pivotal role tourism plays in strengthening Pennsylvania's economy. With one in ten jobs in Erie County connected to hospitality, tourism dollars support essential services, including transportation, infrastructure, education, and public safety programs. Without this contribution, every household in Pennsylvania would bear an additional tax burden of $880."
