GEORGIA — Georgia set a tourism record for the fourth consecutive year in 2025, drawing 175.6 million domestic and international visitors who spent $46.2 billion at local businesses.
The number of visitors kept the state’s ranking as No. 5 in the nation for domestic overnight visits for the sixth year in a row.
The figures, based on an annual study by Tourism Economics for the Georgia Department of Economic Development, showed visitor spending grew by more than 2% compared to 2024.
Tourism generated $5.3 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2025, saving each Georgia household nearly $1,300 in annual taxes.
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State officials said the visitor economy generated $84.1 billion in total economic impact across Georgia.
Tourism activity directly and indirectly supported 473,837 jobs in Georgia in 2025, representing one out of every 15 jobs statewide. Gov. Brian Kemp addressed the milestone during the annual Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference.
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“These figures are a testament to the work of hardworking Georgians statewide who provide visitors with a reason to keep Georgia on their mind, thereby generating revenue, supporting small businesses and creating jobs for hardworking Georgians in all four corners of the Peach State,” Kemp said.
The governor said the state’s natural sites, hospitality and unique places to visit helped make it a top spot for business and travel.
Officials said that, since 2019, Georgia’s visitor economy has expanded by more than 15%, rising from 152.3 million visitors. Over that seven-year span, visitor spending increased by 22%, driving state and local tax revenue up by more than 24%.
Pat Wilson, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development said the role of hospitality workers was important for driving industry growth.
“Every visitor who chooses to spend time and money in our beautiful state helps create a better future for the people who call Georgia home,” Wilson said. “Tourism is a powerful economic driver with real results.”
The state’s tourism division, Explore Georgia, achieved a return on investment of $78 for every $1 spent on paid advertising in 2025, according to an advertising effectiveness study.
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