New Jersey Tourism Hits Record High in 2024 with Over $50 Billion in Visitor Spending

State welcomes 123.7 million visitors in a banner year, setting new milestones in both economic impact and industry employment.

New Jersey’s tourism industry marked a historic year in 2024, surpassing $50 billion in visitor spending for the first time and welcoming a record 123.7 million visitors, according to the “2024 Economic Impact of Visitors to New Jersey” study released by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism (NJTT). The report was unveiled during the New Jersey Tourism Industry Association’s annual Advocacy Day in Trenton.

“We are proud that New Jersey continues to bring in new visitors every day to experience the State’s mix of natural beauty, rich history and cultural attractions,” said Governor Murphy. “With landmark events like the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and America’s 250th anniversary on the horizon, we cannot wait to show even more travelers, residents and friends the very best of what the Garden State has to offer.”

The data highlights a 3.1% increase in visitor spending over 2023, and a 2.7% rise in total visitation. The tourism industry generated a total economic impact of $80.4 billion across multiple sectors, contributing $5.4 billion in state and local tax revenues. According to the study, this equates to $1,545 in tax savings for each New Jersey household.

Visitor activity in 2024 sustained 507,833 jobs, representing 8.3% of all employment in the state, or approximately one in every twelve jobs. The visitor economy accounted for $24.7 billion in GDP, or 2.9% of New Jersey’s total gross domestic product.

“Thanks to the dedication of our tourism industry members, along with the people of New Jersey who remain our greatest ambassadors, our visitation numbers have continued to rise—with no signs of slowing down,” said New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees NJTT in her capacity as Secretary of State. “Last year, tourism contributed over $24 billion to the state’s GDP, generated $5.4 billion in state and local tax revenue, and reduced the average New Jersey household tax burden by $1,545. These strong results underscore the vital role tourism plays as an economic driver for our state, and we’re confident the momentum will only grow in the years to come.”

Growth in Day and Overnight Visits

Of the total visitor volume, more than 69.9 million were day-trippers, while 53 million were overnight guests. Day visitors contributed $6.915 billion in spending, an 8.52% increase over 2023, while overnight visitors spent a combined $43.6 billion.

Sector-by-Sector Spending Trends

Food and beverage spending led all categories, totaling $14.2 billion—28.1% of all visitor expenditures—with a 5.2% year-over-year increase. Lodging followed at $13.45 billion (26.6% of the total), and recreation spending surpassed the $6 billion mark for the first time, up 2.9% from the prior year. Retail spending reached approximately $8.6 billion, a 3% increase from 2023.

Outlook for 2025

Looking ahead, NJTT forecasts continued momentum with an estimated 126.4 million visitors projected for 2025—a 2.2% increase from 2024. Day visits are expected to climb to 71.9 million, while overnight stays may reach 54.5 million. Visitor spending is forecast to rise 3.5% to $52.3 billion, generating approximately $5.5 billion in state and local tax revenue.

The positive outlook is bolstered by upcoming high-profile events in 2026, including New Jersey’s participation in hosting matches for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, which officials anticipate will further strengthen the state’s tourism profile in the years ahead.