Hillsborough County’s tourism industry hit another milestone, in 2024, generating a record $1.16 billion in taxable hotel revenue, according to Visit Tampa Bay. The figure marks an $80 million, or 7.4%, increase from the previous record set in 2023.
This is the county’s third consecutive year surpassing $1 billion in hotel revenue and the fourth straight year of record-breaking totals. Revenue figures have climbed steadily from $758 million, in 2021, to more than $1 billion annually, since 2022.
Hillsborough County also set new monthly records in 2024, including a December total of $108.2 million in taxable hotel revenue, the first time the county has surpassed $100 million for the month. The December total represents a 25.7% increase from the previous high, set in 2022.
Hotel occupancy in December reached 78.4%, up 14% from the previous year, with an average daily rate of $171.27 and revenue per available room at $134.21.
Visit Tampa Bay President and Chief Executive Officer Santiago C. Corrada attributed the growth to strong leisure and business travel and the resilience of the local hospitality industry.
“Our partners across Tampa Bay continue to elevate our region as a top destination,” Corrada said. “This momentum keeps us on track for continued success in 2025.”
