Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association SCVAThe Sullivan Catskills celebrates another record year in visitor spending and job creation in 2023

Sullivan Catskills, NY (Sept. 4, 2024) – The Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association is thrilled to announce the tremendous impact of tourism on the Sullivan Catskills in 2023. According to recent data from Tourism Economics, the region experienced another outstanding year of significant growth in visitor spending and job creation, reinforcing the vital role tourism plays in the local economy.

In 2023, the Catskills region contributed an impressive $2.5 billion to visitor spending in New York State. Of this, Sullivan County emerged as a leading driver of economic growth, with traveler spending surging up 12.5% from 2022 to a record $969 million in 2023. This remarkable increase highlights the growing appeal of the Sullivan Catskills as a premier destination for travelers seeking unique and scenic travel destinations.

“The sustained growth in visitor spending is a testament to the resilience and appeal of the Sullivan Catskills as a premier destination,” said Roberta Byron-Lockwood, President and CEO of the Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association. “We are thrilled to see our region thrive as more visitors discover the unique experiences, seasonal beauty and local happenings that we have to offer.”

Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of Sullivan County’s economy, generating approximately 17,995 jobs in the Catskills—15.4% of all jobs within the region. This translates to 4,908 jobs in Sullivan County alone, underscoring the sector’s importance in supporting local employment. Moreover, Sullivan County is heavily reliant on tourism wages, which constitute 17% of the county’s income.

The benefits of tourism extend beyond employment. Were it not for the state and local taxes generated by tourism, Sullivan County households would face an additional tax burden of $3,481 annually. These significant savings highlight how tourism directly reduces the cost of living for residents while enhancing the overall quality of life in our communities.

“Once again the statistics highlight outstanding results for Sullivan County,” said Eric Frances, Chairman of the SCVA and CEO of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. “The hardworking members of the Sullivan Catskills tourism industry should be very proud of our continued growth and success.”

The Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association remains committed to promoting the region as a top travel destination and continuing to drive economic prosperity through tourism. As we look to the future, we are excited to build on this momentum and ensure that the Sullivan Catskills remain a vibrant and welcoming destination for all. For more information about tourism in the Sullivan Catskills, please visit www.sullivancatskills.com and download our Sullivan Catskills GO! App.

About Tourism Economics

Tourism Economics is an Oxford Economics company with a singular objective: to combine an understanding of the travel sector with proven economic tools. Oxford Economics is one of the world’s most foremost independent global advisory firms, providing reports, forecasts and analytical tools on 200 countries, 100 industrial sectors and over 3,000 cities.

About the Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association (SCVA)

The SCVA is dedicated to promoting the Sullivan Catskills region as a leading destination for travelers. With a commitment to sustainable tourism and community development, the association aims to enhance the visitor experience and support the local economy.

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Contact Information:  Skylar Strauss- sis@scva.net