Economic Impact of Tourism
Transforming Osceola County Through Tourism
Discover the Impact of Experience Kissimmee's Efforts
At Experience Kissimmee, we celebrate the adventures and joy that define Osceola County's unique spirit. Our commitment to impactful tourism marketing campaigns not only inspires visitation to our destination but also enriches the lives of residents and strengthens our local economy.
Tourism is one of Osceola County's most powerful economic drivers, generating $11 billion in total economic impact, supporting 41,000 jobs, and accounting for nearly 35% of all employment countywide. Hospitality and tourism careers in our area yield wages that exceed the national average, creating meaningful opportunities for local families and businesses.
The benefits of tourism extend well beyond our visitors. Tourism-supported revenues generate approximately $710 million in tax savings, helping offset local taxes and saving the average Osceola County household about $4,600 annually. Additionally, every dollar of Tourist Development Tax funding invested in Experience Kissimmee generates $22 in economic impact, helping drive nearly $7.3 billion in visitor spending throughout the community.
Learn more about how tourism's economic impact is fostering a brighter, more prosperous future for Osceola County, its businesses, and its residents.
Supporting Local Businesses
Annually, nearly $7.3 billion in direct visitor spending in community's businesses resulted from Experience Kissimmee's sales and marketing efforts.
(Source: Impactulator)
Boosting Household Tax Savings
Osceola County homeowners save approximately $4,600 on taxes annually, of which a percentage is from Experience Kissimmee’s direct efforts. Learn how Experience Kissimmee works with the Travel Trade Industry around the globe.
(Source: Impactulator & Tourism Economics)
Rich in Career Opportunities
Leading the way with 477K jobs, the Central Florida tourism sector exceeds the national average, and 40.9K of those jobs are based in Osceola County. Our Community Grants help bolster job growth in the county. Discover opportunities right in your backyard and explore the diverse attractions and experiences Central Florida has to offer.
(Source: CareerSource Central Florida, Lightcast, Tourism Economics)
Enriching Community Heritage
In addition to our contractual obligations, more than $4.7 million of additional funding has been paid to community non-profits in the last two years to advance cultural and historical experiences. Check out our Community Grants.
Community Impact at a Glance
The Impact of Travel to Central Florida
When people visit Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties, our entire community benefits. Tourism saves each household $7,690 in annual taxes annually.
Supports
476,541 Jobs
41.7% of the workforce
Generates
$98.6 Billion
In economic impact
Pays
$29.1 Billion
In compensation
Provides
$7.1 Billion
In local & state tax revenue
Local Voices
"Tourism is the seed that bears fruit for all other industries in Osceola County. People can build a lifelong career making our community a great place to live, work, and play."
Peggy Choudhry
Osceola County Commissioner
"The contributions to Osceola Arts reflect commitment to enriching cultural opportunities for Osceola County residents and visitors. Through education and events, we can continue to share our passion for the arts as a vital part of our community. "
Brandon Arrington
Executive Director of Osceola Arts
"Experience Kissimmee goes above and beyond, offering us fantastic support not just through their staff but through their monthly training sessions. Our partnership has been incredibly impactful for our cafe. "
Susana Martinez
Owner of Susana’s Cafe
"Working with Experience Kissimmee has been a game-changer for us. It's helped us network and really promote our diner. Since we became partners, our customer base has expanded, with people coming from all over the world to eat here."
Adrian Perez
Owner of Downtown Diner Celebration
"1881 Restaurant and Bar is proud to collaborate with Experience Kissimmee, welcoming guests from around the globe to savor dishes that celebrate and support our local farms and ranches."
Ray Parsons
Owner of 1881 Bar and Restaurant