YORK COUNTY — York County announced it reached $296.8 million in visitor spending in 2024, according to the most recent data released by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
The county added tourism supported 1,870 local jobs and generated $14.7 million in tourism-related tax revenue.
“Tourism continues to be one of York County’s economic drivers, generating millions in spending that supports local jobs, strengthens small businesses, and enhances our community’s quality of life,” said Kristi Olsen, Director of York County Economic & Tourism Development. “We’re proud of the role Yorktown plays in Virginia’s success as both a historic destination and a vibrant waterfront village. As we look ahead to the VA250 commemoration and next year’s Sail Yorktown Festival, an official SailVirginia 2026 Affiliate Harbor, we are excited to welcome even more visitors to experience the history, culture, and hospitality that make York County such a special place.”
York County said it saw a slight increase in visitor spending on food and beverage and retail in 2024, while spending remained relatively steady in lodging, recreation and transportation.
Virginia Tourism Corporation data showed tourism in Virginia generated a record high $35.1 billion in visitor spending in 2024, a 5.4% increase from $33.3 billion in 2023. Overnight visitation to Virginia increased by over one million people to 44.7 million visitors in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time and setting a new record.
Travelers spent $96 million per day in Virginia in 2024, up from $91 million in 2023, according to the data. Virginia visitors directly drove $2.5 billion in state and local tax revenue, an increase of $100 million from 2023. Every Virginia household saves $990 annually on state and local taxes because of the revenue generated by visitors.
Additionally, the tourism industry in Virginia directly supported over 229,000 jobs in 2024, an increase of nearly 5,000 jobs compared to 2023. Direct travel employment is now at 95% of pre-pandemic employment levels.
“We are incredibly proud to see the continued momentum of Virginia’s tourism industry propelling us to new heights,” said President and CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation Rita McClenny. “Through strategic marketing and close collaboration with statewide partners, VTC is driving new demand and encouraging longer stays across Virginia. From coast to cliff, our diverse destinations continue to captivate. As we look ahead to milestone moments such as the VA250 commemoration, Virginia is poised to play a leading role in how visitors engage with history, culture, and adventure.”
VTC receives its annual economic impact data from Tourism Economics. Detailed economic impact data and methodology are available at vatc.org/research.
